When To Consider Invisalign®

Invisalign® is probably the most well-known brand name for clear aligners. Their popularity is due to their ability to straighten teeth flexibly and discreetly and to their SmartTrack™ material, which can move teeth comfortably and accurately. Patients interested in Invisalign need to consider the benefits and if they are candidates.

Invisalign clear aligners

Invisalign is a highly recognizable brand of clear aligners. These orthodontic appliances straighten teeth through a series of clear and custom-fit trays. Every few weeks, the patient receives a new set of clear aligners that slowly move teeth toward the desired position.

Benefits of Invisalign

Invisalign appeals to those who want a straighter smile but do not like the idea of having to wear noticeable braces for months or years. Clear aligners provide a more discreet and flexible way to straighten teeth, as they are nearly invisible when worn. Also, the aligners are removable, which makes eating and cleaning easier. In addition, Invisalign consists of a material known as SmartTrack, a high-quality and multi-layered plastic designed to straighten teeth more effectively and predictably.

Who is a candidate?

Despite these benefits, one must be a good candidate for Invisalign to work for them. Clear aligners may not be a good match for those with complicated cases or those who may have trouble with treatment compliance. Here is what a person considering clear aligners needs to know.

Age range

Most adults and some teens are good candidates for Invisalign. However, clear aligners are seldom recommended for children, especially young ones. Young children are more likely to take their aligners out, lose them, or forget to put them back in. For this reason, braces are typically a better solution for children.

Personality & habbits

Clear aligners require a high level of compliance. Patients need to wear them for at least 22 hours a day. If a patient wears them for less, the aligners lose some of their effectiveness, making the treatment take longer. Proper care, including cleaning and storing the aligners in their box while not in use, is also important. Therefore, organized individuals who can follow directions properly are the best candidates for clear aligner treatment.

Nature of orthodontic issue

A key consideration with Invisalign is the type of malocclusion or alignment issue the patient is trying to treat. Clear aligners are typically best suited to mild to moderate tooth alignment and bite issues. Braces are still better for more complicated cases. Also, some patients have teeth that are not well shaped for Invisalign. In addition, Invisalign cannot raise or lower the position of teeth in the Jawbone or correct teeth that are too far apart or rotated.