For years, traditional braces have been the gold standard for correcting bite issues like gapped, crooked, crowded or misaligned teeth. For some people, though, after treatment, they’ve noticed some regression. Are they relegated to live with their teeth in the condition they’re in? Is it possible for them to get the results they want with Invisalign? Then, how do other dental procedures effect your chances of receiving Invisalign treatment? Your local cosmetic dentist answers these questions and much more as you read on.
The Differences Between Braces and Invisalign
Your experience with braces involved having metal brackets and wires inserted to adjust your bite until they were correctly aligned, but with Invisalign, the process works much different. The metal components are replaced with clear, plastic trays that fit your teeth snuggly but comfortably.
Your dentist will capture digital images of your smile and take measurements that will be sent to a trusted lab to make a complete series of trays, each set to be worn for two weeks at a time and then discarded for the next pair in the sequence. One of the biggest perks of Invisalign is that patients are afforded a discreet treatment process that’s typically completed much quicker than the traditional braces route.
But am I Eligible for Invisalign?
If you wore braces and have noticed that your teeth shifted after treatment, Invisalign provides an excellent way of correcting it without you having to endure another drawn-out treatment time. When you visit your dentist for a consultation, he or she will examine your teeth and make a recommendation for how to move forward.
When it comes to other procedures you’ve had in the past, the process may be a bit more tedious. Here are some examples of previous dental work that your dentist will consider:
- Dental Bridges – If you’ve received a dental bridge in the past, Invisalign may not be the best option for you. That’s because the process moves each tooth individually, which could cause problems for a bridge that connects two or more digits.
- Porcelain Veneers or Crowns – If you have either veneers or crowns, there’s a chance that you may be eligible to wear the clear Invisalign trays, but your dentist will have to make the final determination based on your specific needs.
It Never Hurts to Visit
To know for sure whether the Invisalign method is right for you, it’s important to reach out to your local dentist to schedule a consultation. Along with having your teeth evaluated, you’ll be able to ask the expert questions so you can be educated about the process.
Your journey to a beautiful smile starts today!
About the Author
A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Joseph Sandberg has over three decades of experience practicing as a dentist. He helps patients enjoy the smile of their dreams with Invisalign at South Jersey Center for Dental Medicine, and he can be reached for more information through his website.