6 Factors to Consider Before Getting Invisalign

Believe it or not, almost 40% of low-income adults in the U.S. have untreated dental problems. While most are due to bad oral habits, some are just because of improper growth of teeth.

If you have teeth that are badly misaligned, there are several options like braces, crowns, and veneers. There is also Invisalign. But what is it, and what does it do?

Invisalign or clear aligner is a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment that uses custom removable aligners to gradually realign teeth into their desired positions.

If you’re interested in getting Invisalign and whether or not it’s right for you, then keep reading. Here are six factors you need to consider.

1. Evaluate Your Orthodontic Situation

It is important to evaluate your orthodontic situation to determine if Invisalign is the ideal solution for you. This may include examining X-rays and a comprehensive evaluation by an orthodontist. The patient’s age and experience are also important factors to consider.

Factors like the severity of the malocclusion and the alignment of the teeth should all be taken into account. If the malocclusion is severe due to significant overbite or crossbite, Invisalign may not be a suitable option. Traditional types of braces may be necessary in this case.

If the patient is an adult or has had previous orthodontic work, their dental history should also be considered. Additionally, the alignment of surrounding teeth should be assessed if there are any spaces between teeth due to missing teeth.

It is important to talk to an orthodontist to discuss the best option for your particular orthodontic situation before making a final decision.

2. Understand the Process of Invisalign Treatment

Before you decide to get Invisalign, you should understand the process of Invisalign treatment and consider all of the factors involved in the decision. The cost of the treatment depends on the severity of your case. The length of your treatment plan and the type of treatment will also affect the total cost.

Another important factor is its effectiveness. Invisalign is not right for everyone. You should speak to a professional dentist to make sure it is the right option for you.

You should also consider the amount of time and effort it will take to properly use Invisalign aligners. They must be worn for at least 22 hours a day to be effective.

Also, you should be aware of possible complications, as some people have reported feeling discomfort and pain. Ultimately, it is important to weigh all factors before getting Invisalign in order to make sure it is the best course of action for you.

3. Consider Your Lifestyle Needs

Before getting Invisalign, it’s essential to consider your lifestyle needs. Invisalign can help improve your smile. However, it’s important to take into account how much time you’ll have to dedicate to oral care. Your oral hygiene, regular dental appointments, and other lifestyle considerations must be looked at.

Throughout the treatment, you’ll need to clean and brush your teeth more often. You’ll have to commit to wearing your aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day.

Since Invisalign is removable, it may be more convenient than traditional braces. But you’ll have to ensure you do take off the aligners when eating and refrain from drinking beverages that can discolor the trays.

Additionally, since Invisalign is an area of specialization, looking for a dental practice that offers Invisalign treatment and has good patient reviews is key. You can contact this local orthodontist for your convenience.

4. Examine Costs and Insurance Coverage

It is crucial to check with insurance companies to see what types of coverage are available for Invisalign. Many insurance companies cover part of the cost and, in some cases, the entire cost.

Additionally, some dental plans also include Invisalign coverage. It is important to contact the insurance provider and ask specific questions to determine the amount of coverage.

Additionally, ask your dental provider if they have payment plans available. This will help bring down the monthly installments and make the cost of Invisalign manageable.

5. Research Invisalign Clinics

When considering Invisalign, it is important to research different clinics that provide the treatment. Conducting research and figuring out which clinic is best for you can help make the process go much smoother.

Consider which clinics offer the best customer service and care. Take this opportunity to check if the doctor is certified in Invisalign treatment. It is wise to read reviews to get a better understanding of the experiences of those who have gone through Invisalign treatments at a certain clinic.

Ensure that the clinic is up to date with current trends in Invisalign technology and treatments in order to find the most suitable treatments for your needs. Make sure the clinic provides follow-up care and advice on the Invisalign treatment, as well as the aftercare route, such as retainers.

Taking the time to research your options can help ensure that the Invisalign treatment is a positive experience.

6. Special Considerations for Specific Conditions

Patients with gummy smiles need to take extra precautions as the aligners can cause some gum recession. Those with bruxism, or excessive grinding of teeth, can inadvertently grind the aligners in their sleep.

Patients who have periodontal disease or gum disease should disclose this information to the orthodontist. If you have this condition, it can complicate Invisalign treatment. Patients with severe crowding, or misaligned teeth, should consult with an orthodontist to determine if Invisalign is right for them.

Lastly, very deep overbites, or discrepancies between the lower and upper teeth, could require additional dental corrections prior to Invisalign treatment. With all of these conditions in mind, it is important to consult with a qualified orthodontist before making a decision on any orthodontic treatments.

Is Getting Invisalign the Way to Go?

Invisalign is an innovative way to get straight teeth more comfortably than getting braces. Taking into account which type of alignment correction is needed, overall cost, budget availability, and lifestyle changes that come with it is the best way to start before getting Invisalign.

Get started on the path to a healthier, straighter smile, and consult your dentist today.

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