You’ve likely heard a lot about braces but maybe not as much about Invisalign® clear aligners. Or maybe you’ve heard things about Invisalign and you’re not sure what’s true and what’s myth. To help you get the right info, Dr. Scheer and the team at Shine Orthodontics want to shed a little light on 6 common myths about Invisalign.
Myth 1: Invisalign Is Only For Minor Orthodontic Problems
Fact: Invisalign treats a wide range of misalignment issues. So what can Invisalign fix? One of the great benefits of Invisalign is that it can correct mild to moderate cases of crooked teeth, gaps, or crowding but it can also address more complex orthodontic problems like underbites or overbites. Invisalign has special attachments and elastics to correct the jaw, similar to what’s used with braces.
An experienced Invisalign orthodontist like Dr. Scheer can create an effective treatment plan for complicated or multidisciplinary cases that results in a straight, well-aligned, and functional smile.
Myth 2: Invisalign Treatment Takes Longer Than Braces
Fact: Invisalign treatment time is as unique as your teeth. As your experienced Invisalign provider in Thornton, CO, we can tell you that Invisalign treatment length varies from patient to patient. It’s based on factors like the complexity of your case, your age, and your oral health.
Invisalign treatment time also depends on how well you stick to your treatment plan: you have to wear your clear aligners for 22 hours per day, change your clear aligner sets as directed, and attend your orthodontist check-ins as scheduled. Excellent oral health is also important; cavities or tooth decay can prolong your treatment.
Myth 3: Invisalign Is Uncomfortable
Fact: Invisalign clear aligners are known for their comfort. Made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, Invisalign is custom fit to your teeth, ensuring precise wear. And Invisalign aligners don’t have brackets or wires that could irritate your gums, cheeks, tongue, or lips.
Now, we should mention that mild pressure is common when you first begin treatment or when you level up to your next set of aligners. After all, your teeth are working hard to shift into their ideal spots. But rest assured, any discomfort from clear aligners typically subsides quickly as your teeth adjust.
Myth 4: Invisalign Costs More Than Braces
Fact: Actually, they’re comparable to braces. Whether Invisalign clear aligners or braces, treatment cost is typically a range, based on the complexity of your orthodontic issues. Many dental insurance packages cover Invisalign much like they do braces which will reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Plus, we’re one of the few Colorado orthodontists that accept Medicaid.
At Shine Orthodontics, we don’t want costs to hinder any of our patients from getting the smile they deserve. So we also have flexible financing options that we can tailor to suit your budget.
Myth 5: You Don’t Have To See an Orthodontist for Invisalign
Fact: You should only get Invisalign with an orthodontist. You might’ve noticed the rise of DIY clear aligner treatments online… but Invisalign is not one of them. Invisalign is only available through an orthodontist or dentist, and it’s highly recommended that you choose an orthodontist who has completed an accredited orthodontic residency and has an expert understanding of biomechanics and how teeth move. This way, you’ll ensure that you receive the personal and professional oversight that’s crucial for shifting teeth safely.
Myth 6: Invisalign Is For Adults, Not For Teens or Kids
Fact: Invisalign offers Invisalign Teen® for youth patients looking for a braces alternative. Invisalign Teen incorporates teen-specific features that don’t appear in Invisalign for adults, namely:
- Eruption Tabs – Located at the back of the aligners accommodate growing molars.
- Compliance Indicators – Small blue dots printed on the aligners that fade after two weeks of wear to alert the patient that it’s time to move on to the next set.
- Replacement Aligners – Extra aligners in case the original ones get lost or damaged.
Your Thornton Orthodontist for Expert Invisalign Treatment
Have we set the record straight on a few Invisalign myths? If you’re now ready to move forward, the team at Shine Orthodontics is here to help you get the smile you’ve always wanted. Board-certified orthodontist Dr. Brandon Scheer brings out his patients’ best smiles with expert Invisalign treatment, whether for adults or teens. He’s even completed the Invisalign Advanced Orthodontic Masters Program, indicating a high level of proficiency and knowledge.
Schedule a free initial appointment at our Thornton, CO office to start your Invisalign journey.
