Am I a Candidate for Invisalign?

If you have orthodontic issues such as crooked or overcrowded teeth, an overbite or underbite or any other problem, you may be a candidate for Invisalign®. Thanks to a wealth of new technology, braces have come a long way from the monster metal braces of decades ago. If you are an adult who is not happy with your smile because of the above issues, and even if you had braces as a child, Invisalign® may be able to help. The first thing you will notice about Invisalign® braces is that you don’t notice them. They are clear plastic aligners that gradually push your teeth into the right position.

Just about everyone is a good candidate, but there are a few things that may come in the way. If you have gum disease or tooth decay, it will need to be treated and cleared up before you can start an Invisalign® treatment. If you have an unusually large overbite, you may need other procedures to fix your jaw instead. If you have dental implants, TMJ disease or a bridge or two, you may need special consideration, but that doesn’t mean Invisalign® is ruled out. There are other discreet and comfortable options as well.

Invisalign® braces take time to correct your dental problems. In some cases, they may take less time than other kinds of braces, but you will need to wear them faithfully for at least 22 hours every day to get the desired results. Adults don’t usually have a problem with this, but teenagers may forget to put them back in after a party or eating at a restaurant with their friends. Wearing the plastic aligners the prescribed amount of time is essential or your teeth will remain crooked.

Since you take the aligners out to eat or drink and clean your teeth, you need to be sure to put them back. Traditional braces are a permanent fixture in your mouth until they are removed. You have no choice but to wear them until your teeth reach the desired position. With Invisalign®, it is up to you to make sure your treatment stays on schedule.

If you are not sure if you or your teenager is a good candidate for Invisalign®, you can have an examination with our specialist at Implant and Comprehensive Dentistry and learn more about the treatment. It is a proven treatment for many orthodontic issues and has the advantage of being practically invisible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in Champions Gate or Winter Haven.