4 Myths About Invisalign Debunked

If you're interested in straightening out your teeth or correcting a misaligned bite, then you have probably looked into your orthodontic options and found that the two most popular are traditional metal braces and Invisalign (straightening with clear aligner trays). Invisalign is a highly popular option because it offers several advantages over metal braces such as the ability to remove your aligners for meals and dental hygiene in addition to the treatment being nearly invisible.  

While Invisalign has grown in popularity over the previous decades, misleading rumors have spread rapidly, too. Our Clayton dentist is here to set the record straight by debunking four of the most common myths and misconceptions about Invisalign.  

Setting the Record Straight: 4 Invisalign Myths - Debunked

1. Treatment With Invisalign Takes Longer Than Treatment With Braces

The truth is treatment with braces or Invisalign takes about the same amount of time for the same people. The time required for treatment depends on the individual patient's needs and the complexity of their orthodontic issues. More severe or complex orthodontic cases usually require more lengthy treatment. With either braces or Invisalign, orthodontic treatment could take anywhere from six months to two years.  

2. Invisalign Can't Correct More Complex Orthodontic Issues

While some clear aligner systems can only treat minor to moderate orthodontic issues, Invisalign can actually address more complex concerns. The Invisalign system has unique features that can accommodate the use of rubber bands and other special attachments that make the treatment of more severe or complex issues possible.

3. Invisalign Is Only for Adults

While Invisalign is usually more strongly recommended for adults, it can be used to treat responsible children and teens, as well. The main reason it is more commonly offered to adults is because the aligners are removable but still need to be worn for at least 22 hours each day. If the aligners are not worn as directed, then treatment will not be effective.  

Invisalign, however, does offer special treatments for teenagers and can accommodate baby teeth, missing teeth, and erupting teeth in younger patients. They even provide a system to help parents monitor their child's adherence to the system.  

4. Invisalign Is More Painful Than Metal Braces  

There is some initial discomfort involved with both metal braces and Invisalign due to the nature of orthodontic treatments putting pressure on the teeth to shift them into the desired locations and alignment. The discomfort, however, is minor and quickly goes away as the patient adjusts to receiving treatment.  

In terms of pain and comfort, Invisalign is typically considered more comfortable than metal braces because the clear trays are made of smooth plastic that is gentle on the soft tissues of the mouth such as the tongue, lips, and cheeks. Comparatively, metal braces and the wires they use often have rough surfaces that can irritate the soft tissues, causing sores inside the mouth.  

Is Invisalign More Expensive Than Braces? How much does Invisalign Cost?

Another common myth about Invisalign is that it costs more than traditional braces. This, however, is not true. In fact the cost of braces and Invisalign is fairly comparable. Orthodontic treatment costs mainly fluctuate as a result of the extent, length, and complexity of treatment needed in addition to a patient's insurance coverage, rather than on whether the patient chooses Invisalign or braces.  

Straighten Your Smile With Our Dentist in Clayton

If you or your child has crooked teeth, a misaligned bite, crowded teeth, or a tooth gap that is causing distress or affecting oral health, there is no reason to live with anything but a perfectly straight, comfortable, and healthy smile. Our East Bay dentist, Dr. Austin Brown provides orthodontic treatment with Invisalign in Clayton. Our team is experienced in working with patients of all ages to help them determine the best course of orthodontic treatment designed to improve the appearance, feel, function, comfort, and health of their smiles.  

To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule a consultation, we welcome to you contact Austin Brown DDS in Clayton, California today.

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