For a long time, traditional braces were the only option for anyone wanting to correct their orthodontic issues. So it’s no wonder that most people tend to associate orthodontics with a mouth full of metal! Fortunately, times have changed, and we’re able to offer patients more treatment methods than ever before thanks to advances in orthodontic technology. Traditional braces have even had a major makeover in recent years, making them far more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than their predecessors. Treatment times are faster and patients can even customize their braces by choosing elastic bands in fun colors to add a pop of personality to their orthodontic journey!
Despite a number of improvements in both their appearance and function, there are still many teen and adult patients on the fence about wearing braces. Most are hoping for a more subtle treatment option that won’t stand out quite so much. Here at Clauss Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer alternatives to traditional metal braces, including clear braces and Invisalign clear aligners. In fact, Invisalign is currently our most popular option for patients wanting a discreet way to straighten their teeth! This clear aligner system can be a great option for many patients looking to correct a variety of orthodontic issues, and in most cases, it will be comparable in cost to braces. There are times where they be slightly more expensive, however.
This has left some patients questioning if Invisalign is worth any potential difference in the overall cost of treatment. We happen to think that Invisalign aligners can be a worthwhile investment for just about any smile! Keep reading below to learn more about why we love these aligners and how they can transform your smile into something truly special.
The clear choice for flexibility
The most obvious benefit of Invisalign is how flexible treatment is. Since the aligners are removable, they can be taken out for short periods of time. This is really appealing for athletes, musicians who play certain kinds of instruments, brides, seniors, and anyone who wants their natural smile to shine through on a special occasion! Invisalign aligners are also clear, which can be a welcome alternative for those who are more image-conscious and worried about their smile standing out during treatment.
The removable aligners also offer patients an extra measure of freedom. Food restrictions are a perfect example of this! Since crunchy and sticky foods can easily damage brackets and wires, patients in braces need to avoid them throughout the treatment process. It can be difficult to give up your favorite snacks and treats, even if it’s only temporary, but Invisalign means you can still enjoy all the same foods you always have! The aligners are designed to be removed before eating, then put it back in again once when you’re done.
Brush and floss with ease
Removability is also a bonus when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums clean during treatment. While it’s important for all of us to maintain a good oral hygiene routine, it’s even more essential for orthodontic patients. Brushing and flossing with braces can be time-consuming, as there are a lot of nooks and crannies to keep clean. Food particles and plaque may build up around the brackets and wires, which can increase the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
Caring for your mouth with Invisalign couldn’t be easier, though! Aligners are simply removed before brushing and flossing as normal. Caring for the aligners themselves is also a cinch. There are special kits designed to clean them properly, or they can be gently brushed with toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
Get a straighter smile sooner
Here at Clauss Orthodontics, we’re all about individualized care. We know every case is different, and that patients respond to treatment in their own way. That’s why there’s no “one size fits all” answer for how long treatment will take. There are many factors that go into the total treatment time, including patient compliance. This is particularly important with Invisalign!
For the aligners to be successful, they must be worn for 20-22 hours per day throughout the treatment process. The aligners also need to be switched out for the next in the series every 1-2 weeks in order to keep up with the movements the teeth are making. Failure to follow through on this can lead to longer treatment times, but patients who wear their aligners exactly as they’re meant to usually complete treatment within 6-18 months. That’s actually slightly faster than the average time spent in braces!
Correct a wide range of orthodontic issues
When Invisalign was first marketed to orthodontists, the aligners were generally only used to correct things like simple spacing issues or mild crowding. The design of the aligners has improved a great deal, however, and Invisalign is now able to treat many conditions just as effectively as traditional braces. Some of these conditions include:
- gaps between teeth
- crowding
- deep overbite
- open bite
- crossbite
- protruding teeth
It’s worth noting that Invisalign generally works best for adult and teen patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Complex or severe cases will sometimes require more precise tooth control than a removable aligner is able to achieve.
Trust your smile to the Invisalign experts at Clauss Orthodontics
As we briefly mentioned above, Invisalign is a fantastic choice for many patients, but it’s not for everybody. When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Clauss, he’ll use photos, x-rays, and an orthodontic exam to determine if Invisalign would be a good fit for you. If he feels a different treatment option would be better for your smile, we’ll walk you through that. Our team will also outline the investment needed for your new smile, including payment options and insurance coverage.
Once you have all the necessary information, you’ll be able to weigh your options more effectively. Knowing there’s such a successful alternative to braces can make any added cost feel worth every penny!
Dr. Clauss has been creating beautiful smiles with Invisalign clear aligners for more than a decade. If you’d like to learn more about how this system can transform your smile, get in touch today and schedule your FREE consultation in our Watertown or Woodbury office. Invisalign is the clear choice to help you achieve the confident smile you’ve always wanted—and the healthy smile you deserve!