Invisalign is fast becoming the most popular option for straightening teeth and mild to moderate movement of the teeth. We’ve definitely seen that same trend at The Hills Dental Spa in Austin. The key is wearing the aligner trays from 20-22 hours every day, but that’s easy because once the trays are on their teeth patients usually forget about them.
Here are four reasons why our patients love Invisalign:
First, their most obvious reason is that no one knows you’re having your teeth straightened. This is because the aligners are made of clear plastic and are virtually invisible when on the teeth. Even a person talking to you in close proximity can’t see the aligners on your teeth. This is a dramatic contrast to the metal bands, wires, and colored rubber bands of traditional braces. The removal of the “metal mouth” stigma of braces is the most popular benefit of Invisalign.
Second, Invisalign is comfortable. Metal bands rub on your cheeks and lips. Wires poke your tongue and cheeks. Monthly “adjustments” usually call for some ibuprofen for one to two days afterwards to deal with the serious aching. If you play an instrument or sports, metal bands can be a serious pain.
Third, keeping your teeth clean with braces is quite difficult. Removing food stuck on the bands and under wires requires diligence. To floss, you need a threader. Often teens with traditional braces find there was an area of decay under a band or between teeth when they have those braces removed. With Invisalign, you simply remove the trays and brush and floss your teeth normally. You also lightly brush the aligner trays, or clean them with a couple of other options.
Fourth, with traditional braces, some foods are off limits. Corn on the cob has to be cut off. Very sticky or chewy foods are not OK as they can dislodge or break a band. With Invisalign, you simply take out the trays and eat whatever you want.