How Can I Know Whether Invisalign Is Right for Me?

Many people want to undergo Invisalign® treatment, but some may not be good candidates for it. This article reviews some of the indications that Invisalign may work for you. Read on to learn more about this teeth-straightening option.

How to find out whether Invisalign is right for you

Invisalign is a system of transparent aligner trays that gradually shift the position of the teeth. The trays are created from a custom mold of the patient’s teeth. Each tray in the set will slightly alter the form of the teeth. The teeth should be straight by the time patients have worn the entire sequence of trays. The following are signs that a patient may be a good candidate for Invisalign.

A case of dental misaligned teeth

Invisalign can correct many types of dental misalignment. This option works for those with underbites, overbites, crossbites, open bites, gaps, or crowded teeth. However, this does not mean that it will work for everyone. The dental professional will be able to evaluate the patient’s situation and determine if Invisalign is appropriate. In more complicated instances, it may be difficult to get the desired results without conventional braces.

Commitment to treatment

Invisalign is exclusively for individuals above a certain age limit because patients must be committed to wearing them to get results. Since Invisalign trays are removable, wearers may take them out at will. The effectiveness of the system lies in wearing them for a certain number of hours each day. This often means wearing them for at least 22 hours and only removing them when eating or to clean the teeth.

Some individuals may slack on consistent use since the trays can be removed, and there is a risk of losing or misplacing them. These individuals are unlikely to make significant improvements with Invisalign unless they dedicate themselves to consistently wearing the aligners. Invisalign is probably not the best option for patients who are not dedicated to the treatment and tend to misplace important items.

A complete set of adult teeth

Most dental professionals do not recommend teeth straightening for patients who do not have all their adult teeth yet. The reason is that it is hard to predict how children's permanent teeth will develop. Patients must have all of their adult teeth in order to get Invisalign. Young adults may retain a residual baby tooth or two in certain instances. If this is the case, further orthodontic treatment may be necessary before beginning the Invisalign procedure.

Excellent oral hygiene

Invisalign trays require excellent dental hygiene. Patients must not only have a healthy mouth but also be able to properly care for the trays so infections or other problems do not develop. Patients must clean the trays on a regular basis. Otherwise, damage to the tray may necessitate replacements, which means extra costs. The dentist will ensure the patient has good oral health before recommending the treatment.