Over the past few years, Invisalign has surged in popularity as a subtle and convenient substitute for conventional braces. However, with popularity comes misinformation. That’s why our Lakewood dentists are here to set the record straight.
Are you interested in learning more about clear aligner therapy? Then, it’s time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaun Sigurdson, Dr. Mihir Patel, and their skilled team at Lakewood Dental Group. Request your appointment at our Dallas, TX, dental clinic by ringing (214) 827-1885 now!
In this blog post, we want to give you accurate information about Invisalign treatment. Here, we debunk the 20 most common myths surrounding Invisalign, shedding light on the truth behind these clear aligners.
Myth 1: Invisalign is Only for Cosmetic Purposes
One prevalent misconception is that Invisalign is solely for cosmetic purposes. In reality, while Invisalign can undoubtedly improve the appearance of your smile, it also addresses various functional and orthodontic issues, including:
- Bite misalignments
- Overcrowded teeth
- Gaps
Myth 2: Clear Aligners Take Longer Than Braces
Some believe that Invisalign treatment is lengthier than traditional braces. However, the duration of treatment depends on the complexity of the case. In certain instances, Invisalign may even achieve results faster than braces.
Myth 3: Treatment is Painful
Contrary to popular belief, Invisalign is reportedly less painful than traditional braces. While some patients may experience initial discomfort as they adjust to new aligners, the pain is usually mild and temporary.
Myth 4: Clear Aligners Are Only for Adults
Invisalign is suitable for individuals of various age groups, including young children and teenagers. In fact, Invisalign offers specific products designed to address the unique orthodontic needs of younger patients.
Myth 5: Invisalign Can Only Fix Minor Issues
Invisalign is capable of treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, from mild to moderate complexity. Clear aligners have evolved to handle increasingly challenging cases, making them a versatile solution for various dental concerns.
However, in some cases, our Dallas dentists may still recommend conventional braces to tackle more complex issues, such as extremely crowded teeth or significant jaw misalignments.
Myth 6: Aligners Must be Worn 24/7
While consistency is key, our team designs Invisalign trays to be easily removed and reinserted. So, while they should be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day for maximum effectiveness, they allow for flexibility during meals and oral hygiene routines. Just remember: Prolonged neglect of wearing the aligners can impede progress.
Myth 7: Clear Aligners Are More Expensive Than Braces
Cost concerns often deter individuals from exploring Invisalign as an option. But, in reality, the cost of Invisalign can be comparable to traditional braces. Additionally, many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment, softening the financial burden on patients.
Myth 8: Invisalign Can Stain Easily
Our Lakewood dentists fabricate aligner trays from a durable, clear plastic material that is largely resistant to staining. As long as proper care is taken (such as removing the aligners during meals, quitting smoking, and maintaining good oral hygiene), staining is unlikely to be a significant issue.
Myth 9: Clear Aligner Therapy Is Not Effective for Severe Cases
Invisalign technology has advanced significantly, allowing for the treatment of more complex orthodontic issues. However, it is always best to consult with a dental professional to determine which solution is best for you.
Myth 10: Clear Aligners Can Cause Speech Impediments
Some people worry that wearing Invisalign might cause them to lisp or stumble over their words. While there may be an adjustment period when first starting treatment, any speech changes are usually temporary and minimal. Most individuals adapt quickly to the aligners and speak naturally after a short adjustment period.
Myth 11: Invisalign Results Are Not Permanent
Once Invisalign treatment is complete, the results are typically permanent. However, wearing retainers as prescribed by our team is crucial to maintaining the achieved alignment over time.
Myth 12: Teeth Aligners Are Uncomfortable to Wear
Our team designs aligners to fit perfectly in your mouth. While some initial discomfort or pressure may be experienced when transitioning to a new set of aligners, the custom fit of each set of trays limits pain.
Myth 13: Clear Aligners Require Constant Adjustments
Unlike traditional braces that necessitate frequent visits to a dental professional for adjustments, Invisalign relies on a series of bespoke dental trays. This means that our Dallas dentists make most adjustments in advance, reducing the need for frequent office visits.
Myth 14: Invisalign is Noticeable
One of the primary advantages of Invisalign is its nearly invisible appearance. This makes them an ideal choice for appearance-conscious patients to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their orthodontic treatment.
Myth 15: Invisalign is Not Covered by Insurance
Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment, just like they would for traditional braces. It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Myth 16: DIY Aligners Are as Effective as Invisalign
DIY aligners or mail-order aligner services lack the professional supervision provided by dentists and orthodontists during Invisalign treatment. Seeking professional guidance is crucial to ensure effective and safe orthodontic correction.
Myth 17: Clear Aligners Can Cause Cavities
Maintaining good oral hygiene habits is crucial for optimal oral well-being, especially during Invisalign treatment. Proper brushing and flossing, along with regular dental check-ups, can prevent cavities and other dental issues associated with any orthodontic treatment.
Myth 18: Dental Aligners Can Damage Teeth
Invisalign aligners are designed to be gentle on your teeth and gums. When used as directed by your orthodontist, Invisalign is a safe and non-invasive option for teeth straightening.
Myth 19: Invisalign is Unaffordable for Many People
While cost can be a concern, Lakewood Dental Group offers flexible payment plans to make clear aligner therapy more accessible. Additionally, the long-term benefits of a straighter smile can outweigh the initial investment.
Myth 20: Invisalign Results Take Years to Show
Clear aligners are known for providing efficient and predictable results. Many patients begin to see noticeable improvements in their smiles within a few months. Additionally, the total treatment duration is often shorter compared to traditional braces.
Discuss Clear Aligner Therapy with Our Dallas, TX, Dentists
By dispelling these common myths, we hope you can make a more informed decision about your orthodontic care. Are you ready to embrace the transformative benefits of Invisalign? Request a consultation at Lakewood Dental Group online or call our front desk team at (214) 827-1885 for more information and booking.
