Invisalign Can Straighten Teeth Without Traditional Braces

Invisalign® treatment is an alternative to traditional braces for many patients who have a mild to moderate misalignment and want a more discreet way to straighten their smile and improve their jaw alignment. This review discusses Invisalign® in detail, contrasting it with traditional braces.

Invisalign® vs. traditional braces explained

Many people are choosing Invisalign over traditional braces due to the numerous benefits that it can provide. However, Invisalign is not always the best treatment solution. The following review is meant to help patients make a more informed decision about orthodontic care by explaining the process of Invisalign and comparing this treatment to traditional braces.

What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign is a form of orthodontic treatment. It uses clear aligner trays to move teeth into a more appropriate alignment. This is done to achieve a smile that the patient finds more appealing and to make it easier for them to protect their smile. The primary goal of treatment is to correct teeth alignment concerns, teeth spacing issues, and bite complications (e.g., underbite, overbite, etc.).

How is Invisalign® different from traditional braces?

Traditional braces involve brackets and wires. The brackets attach to the teeth, and a metal wire runs through the brackets, moving the teeth into the ideal positions. The braces are tightened as the teeth shift. Invisalign works differently, as treatment involves wearing customized trays that are worn over the teeth. Invisalign aligners are removable and transparent. Braces are visible to others and cannot be removed.

Who should consider Invisalign® treatment?

Invisalign treatment is ideal for anyone who is not happy with their smile due to misaligned teeth or bite alignment concerns. The most common types of misalignments addressed with Invisalign include:

• Teeth overcrowding
• Crooked teeth
• Teeth gaps
• Bite issues (e.g., underbite)

It is important to keep in mind that Invisalign is ideal for mild to moderate misalignment concerns, whereas traditional braces are often the recommended solution for severe alignment issues that need more extensive straightening and jaw repositioning.

What is the Invisalign® treatment process like?

The treatment process involves regular visits to the dental office to receive new Invisalign aligners as teeth are pulled into straighter positions. The Invisalign aligners should be worn for at least 20 hours each day to ensure optimal results, and a retainer must be worn after the treatment is complete.

Invisalign treatment times vary and can range from six months to two years. On average, treatment times are shorter than with traditional braces. The retainer must be worn for at least a year. After the first year of wearing the retainer, the patient may only be required to wear it at night.

Start your Invisalign® journey with a consultation

Our dental team helps Invisalign patients throughout the treatment process. During your first visit with our team, we can answer any questions or address any concerns that you may have and put together a teeth straightening plan that works for you. So, why wait? Call us today to get started.

Request an appointment here or call Arizona Family Dental at (480) 782-5477 for an appointment in our Chandler office.