There are over 7 million people who wear Invisalign in the United States, making it one of the fastest-growing alternatives to braces currently available. The treatment has long been popular for its comfort and convenience, but some details should be considered. Discover some of the pros and cons of Invisalign before deciding whether it is the best treatment plan for you.
Pro: They’re Invisible
Patients love Invisalign aligners because, as their name suggests, they’re invisible. Unlike shiny wires or bold brackets, Invisalign is hard to see, especially to the untrained eye. No one even has to know you’re wearing Invisalign if you don’t tell them!
Con: They Have to Be Cleaned Carefully
For Invisalign to remain transparent, it has to be cleaned carefully. Brushing your Invisalign with toothpaste can leave your aligners cloudy or scratched. Eating or drinking while wearing Invisalign can stain the aligners or even break them. They should be rinsed with water whenever they’re removed and soaked with a special cleaner to prevent bacteria.
Pro: You Can Eat Your Favorite Food
When you wear Invisalign, you can eat all of your favorite foods. Corn on the cob, apples, popcorn, and other foods aren’t off-limits like they would be if you’re wearing braces. You simply have to remove your aligners before eating and rinse your mouth before putting your aligners back in.
Con: Snacking is Limited
If you’re a frequent snacker Invisalign may not be the right option. Any time you snack or go for a drink, the aligners have to be removed and rinsed. Taking a sip of tea, coffee, or soda can stain your aligners (and your teeth!). This not only is annoying but can put you at risk of losing your aligners.
Pro: They’re Comfortable
When it comes to the pros and cons of Invisalign, nothing beats their comfort. You don’t have to deal with wires poking or prodding your mouth. Invisalign simply slides on and off. However, when you change your aligners every few visits, you may experience some slight pain. Over-the-counter pain medication can help.
Con: They’re Not for Everyone
Aligners can’t correct severe alignment issues or larger gaps between teeth. This is why our Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia orthodontists offer a free consultation. Then we can determine whether Invisalign is right for you.
Pro: You Can Conveniently Remove Them
Whether you’re eating, drinking, or playing sports, you can remove your Invisalign as needed. You can also remove the aligners to brush your teeth, meaning you don’t have to worry about white spots after braces or food particles lodged beneath your wires.
Con: You Have to Remember to Wear Them
Although Invisalign is popular, results and success rates vary. This is because some patients simply do not wear their Invisalign. Invisalign has to be worn for at least 22 hours per day to be successful. If you don’t wear your aligners, your treatment could take longer than normal.
Pro: They’re Affordable!
Invisalign is affordable if you turn to Exeter Orthodontics. If after your consultation you discover that Invisalign may not be the best option for you, traditional braces are available for only $3,995.
Request a free consultation with our orthodontists in Reading, Allentown, and beyond to start your journey toward a straighter smile.