Invisalign® is a popular way to straighten teeth in adults and teens. However, there are many myths about the treatment that can make people hesitant to try it. We will discuss some of these myths in this blog post, as well as dispel them with facts about Invisalign®!
Common myths about Invisalign® aligners
Myth – Invisalign® is only for kids
Fact – Adults can get Invisalign® too!
Invisalign® is not just for kids – adults can get the treatment too! In fact, many adults choose Invisalign® because it is more discreet than traditional braces. Invisalign® treatment can be opted in at any phase of life which includes children, teenagers, and adults of all ages. There is no age limit for Invisalign®. We frequently see patients in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s successfully complete an Invisalign® treatment.
Myth – Invisalign® is painful
Fact – Invisalign® is not painful
One of the biggest myths about Invisalign® is that it is painful. Invisalign® aligners are not painful – in fact, many people say it is more comfortable than traditional braces. Because the aligners are custom-made for your teeth, they fit snugly and do not cause pain or irritation like traditional braces and metal wires can. Also, many patients find that the aligners are less noticeable than metal brackets.
Myth – You have to wear Invisalign® 24/7
Fact – You only need to wear your aligners for around 22 hours per day
Another myth about Invisalign® is that you have to wear them 24 hours a day. The fact is, daily wear time should be around 22 hours per day – so you can take off your aligners when eating meals, no problem! This results in minimal discomfort as well as increased convenience because patients can eat whatever they want without worrying about stalling their progress.
Myth – You need to have already near-perfect teeth to get Invisalign®
Fact – Invisalign® can help crooked and misaligned teeth!
Many people think that they need nearly straight teeth in order to get Invisalign®, but this is not true! If you have crooked teeth, Invisalign® can still help. The aligners will gently move your teeth into the correct position over time. Of course, treatment length will be determined based on how straight your teeth are before you begin the orthodontic treatment. While using clear aligners for an already near-perfect smile will take less time, we can still create a custom treatment plan to resolve issues such as crowded teeth, overbite, underbite, crowded teeth, gaps, and more.
Myth – The aligners will damage my teeth and gums
Fact – Dentists take great care in making sure that the fit of your aligners won’t harm your teeth or gums
This is simply not true! Your dentist takes great care in making sure that the fit of your aligners won’t cause any damage to your oral health.
Myth – Invisalign® is too expensive
Fact – The cost of Invisalign® is comparable to the cost of traditional braces
Another common myth about Invisalign® is that it is too expensive. However, the cost of Invisalign® is comparable to the cost of traditional metal braces. In fact, in many cases, Invisalign® can be even more affordable because there are no hidden costs like with traditional braces (such as for bands, wires, and office visits). If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover a portion of your Invisalign® treatment – so be sure to ask your dentist! At Southern Dental Associates, we are currently offering a special price of $3,995 ($0 Down and Payments as Low as $85/mo.)
Myth – It takes a long time for results to show with Invisalign®
Fact – Some patients may begin to notice a subtle difference within 10 to 12 weeks.
Another common myth is that results with Invisalign® take a long time. However, this isn’t necessarily true! Some patients may begin to notice subtle differences within just ten weeks of wearing their aligners. Further changes will continue as you wear your aligners and move through treatment – the difference in appearance becomes more apparent over time as your teeth become straighter and gaps close up.
Of course, every patient is different – some people start seeing results right away while others can wait months. This depends on the severity of each patient’s case and how committed they are to following the treatment process as prescribed.
Myth – Dental hygiene is more difficult with Invisalign®
Fact – You can brush and floss your teeth just like you always have
One myth about Invisalign® is that it makes oral health more difficult. The fact, however, is that you can brush and floss your teeth just like you always have! There are no special instructions for care while using Invisalign®, unlike metal braces. Just remember to remove your aligner when brushing and do not clean the inside of the trays with any harsh objects (such as toothpicks) because this may damage them over time. Tooth decay is still possible while wearing your aligners, so be sure to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
Seeking Invisalign® treatment? Southern Dental Associates can help!
We hope this blog post has dispelled some of the myths about Invisalign®. If you are considering Invisalign® for straighter teeth, be sure to discuss all of your questions with a qualified dentist. If you have any other questions about the treatment or want to know if it is right for you, please contact our office! We would be happy to help you and provide a free consultation.
