Invisalign offers a wonderful approach to modern orthodontics. With customized clear plastic aligners, Invisalign is a way to achieve a straight, healthy smile without the need for more invasive treatments like braces. But is it faster than braces?
Invisalign is faster than braces by several months. Typically, Invisalign takes around 6-18 months to fully straighten your teeth, while braces can last up to 2 years. However, it’s important to note that every smile is different, and some people may benefit from one over the other.
The Basics of Orthodontics
Traditionally, braces have been the most popular way to correct a crooked smile. They operate on a simple basis—over several months, pressure is applied to the edges of the teeth to gently guide them to a more desired shape.
However, this can be fairly invasive. Braces require a complex mix of:
- Wires
- Bands
- Brackets
These need to be carefully affixed to your teeth while requiring regular tightening, which can be uncomfortable if not painful. Braces can sometimes be bulky and obvious while affecting how you chew, speak, and look. So what if you’re looking for a straighter smile, but don’t want to deal with the disadvantages of more traditional orthodontics?
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign takes a simpler approach to orthodontics. Instead of fixing the materials inside your mouth, the Invisalign method involves the use of custom-fit clear plastic aligners. These are almost entirely undetectable when worn, offering a subtle alternative to braces.
Invisalign can help correct issues such as:
- Crooked teeth
- Overbites or underbites
- Gaps between teeth
- Crossbites
- Misaligned teeth
Just like braces, Invisalign applies gentle amounts of pressure to the teeth, slowly shifting them towards the desired location. Over your treatment, these aligners gradually apply more pressure at different angles to give you the smile you’re looking for.
However, there’s an important distinction between Invisalign and braces; these aligners are entirely removable, making it much easier to care for them. This makes Invisalign a popular alternative to traditional braces.
What to Expect from Invisalign
Invisalign begins with a consultation with an experienced dentist. They’ll need to go through a few steps before you begin. First, your dentist or orthodontist will examine your teeth, take impressions, and create a custom treatment plan.
Your aligners will be created, and you’ll return to your dentist. They’ll show you how to use the aligners and explain the process. You don’t just get one set of aligners; you’ll be receiving several full sets.
You wear these aligners for a week or two, then switch to the next set in line. You should only be removing the aligners to eat, drink, and brush your teeth; otherwise, it’s ideal to keep them in,
Ideally, you should wear each set at least 22 hours a day; this keeps the pressure on your teeth constant to gently shift your teeth. Every few weeks, you’ll need to return to the dentist so they can monitor your progress and make any adjustments if needed.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
If you have a minor misalignment or spacing issue with your teeth, then Invisalign may be the answer you’ve been looking for. Typically, this treatment takes anywhere between 6-18 months; this can vary depending on:
- The degree of your misalignment
- Whether you have any underlying dental conditions
- How consistent you are with wearing the aligners
This process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free as long as you follow your dentist’s recommendations. You should start noticing minor results within a few weeks, and major results should appear within a few months. Remember—consistency is going to be key here, so make sure you’re following any and all advice you’ve been given.
This timeline is often shorter than what you’d experience with braces. Typically, braces take around 2 years to fully correct a smile—and in many situations, they can take even longer. Invisalign offers a shorter timeline, more convenience, and an extremely effective way to deal with misalignment.
The Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign is an excellent choice for all kinds of dental problems. Due to the removable aligners, it’s often much more comfortable than alternative options; you don’t have to worry about things like:
- Wires causing irritation in your mouth
- Brackets cutting into your cheeks and lips
- The regular tightening of braces
Simply put, it’s convenient, fast-acting, and comfortable. It’s also almost undetectable, making it an excellent choice for teenagers, young adults, and anyone who would rather not highlight their choice of dental treatment.
Where to Get Invisalign
Invisalign offers an excellent alternative to traditional orthodontics. It’s a subtle, effective, and fast-acting answer to all kinds of misalignment.If you’re considering Invisalign, come talk to our team at Genesis Dental. We’ll work with you to find the right path going forward. If you’re ready to take the first step towards your dream smile, book an appointment with us today!
