Each year, countless teens and adults opt for Invisalign over traditional braces to correct less-than-perfect smiles. Though each person often has specific reasons for selecting Invisalign, there are many benefits of this cosmetic dental treatment you may not have considered. Read on to learn whether using clear alignment trays to correct your smile is right for you.
Aesthetic Benefits of Invisalign
There is no question that Invisalign offers greater discretion when aligning your teeth. Instead of brackets and wires that are impossible to notice when you smile, many people won’t even notice Invisalign trays, as long as you keep them clean. Invisalign’s clear plastic trays are also virtually invisible in photos.
Invisalign also helps you protect your teeth from decalcification, which can happen with bracket braces. Because brackets are cemented to your teeth, it is difficult to remove all of the bacteria on the teeth. Bacteria lead to acid development which can eat away at the enamel of the teeth, in a process known as decalcification. Decalcification causes chalky white spots on the teeth, which are often first seen when braces are removed. Moreover, if you eat and drink a lot of foods and beverages that cause stains such as coffee, tea, white, and red sauces, the exposed area of your teeth may experience discoloration during your treatment, while the part of the tooth beneath the bracket does not.
Because Invisalign allows you to brush the entire teeth, decalcification spots are less likely, and you won’t have to worry about staining or discoloration around the bracket.
Lifestyle Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign also offers a variety of lifestyle benefits. You can enjoy all of your favorite foods while undergoing treatment with Invisalign, as the alignment trays are removable. You won’t need to worry about certain foods causing a wire to snap, or food becoming stuck in a bracket. You remove your Invisalign trays every time you eat, or drink anything other than water.
If you are an athlete, you’ll also be able to remove the alignment trays and replace them with a mouthguard while engaging in sports. This offers you the peace of mind of being able to protect your teeth while enjoying athletics.
Invisalign can be removed for up to four hours per day. This is helpful if you’d like to remove your trays for celebrations, nights out with friends, or if you’ve got business headshots, engagement photos, or other events to commemorate. However, to stay on track with your treatment plan you must wear your trays at least 20 hours per day.
Invisalign is also much more comfortable than bracket braces. The trays are very smooth, making them gentle on soft tissues inside the mouth. You will never have to deal with scrapes from abrasive metal brackets. You also won’t be at risk of cutting your cheek or tongue due to a snapped wire.
Oral Health Benefits of Invisalign
By virtue of being removable, Invisalign can help ensure good oral health while undergoing your orthodontic treatment. You can brush the entire surface of your teeth, which prevents plaque buildup. You can also floss normally. Being able to clean your teeth thoroughly during your treatment can help prevent myriad problems due to plaque accumulation, including cavities, gum disease, and infections.
Want to Learn More About Invisalign on the UWS? Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re interested in learning if Invisalign is right for you, Smiles on the Upper West Side invites you to schedule a consultation today. We will be happy to answer all of your questions. We will also provide you with an estimate of the length of treatment, and the cost of your treatment. Contact us at 212-222-5225 or book an appointment online.