Do Invisalign Aligners Take Longer Than Traditional Braces?
One of the most popular orthodontic procedures for young adults are Invisalign aligners. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign are removable and are designed to be see-through. But patients who grew up with traditional braces or were not able to get Invisalign braces when they were younger might have a few questions. One of the most common questions frequently asked is whether or not Invisalign takes longer. Treatment periods for both Invisalign and traditional braces vary based on the services you need. Simply put, Invisalign doesn’t work faster or slower than traditional braces, however, the treatment period can be affected by whether or not the patient follows their dentist or orthodontist’s instructions. Read on for more information about Invisalign or contact us to set up a dental appointment in the Swampscott area.
Does Invisalign Work Faster Than Traditional Braces?
As stated above, the duration of how long it will take Invisalign aligners or traditional braces to re-align your smile varies. First and foremost, your unique tooth alignment will be the largest factor in the estimation on how long it might take for your teeth to be straightened. A more severe case of crowding or overbite/underbite can take years to correct in relation to smaller issues. Aligners and braces can take anywhere from less than a year to a few years. When instructions are followed correctly regarding daily use, the time it takes for aligners to work is quickened.
How Can I Make My Orthodontic Treatment Quicker?
The time it takes for your teeth to straighten can be impacted by your daily behavior whether you are using traditional metal braces or Invisalign aligners. In fact one of the reasons there is a misconception that Invisalign always takes longer is because patients sometimes don’t follow the instructions. Because Invisalign is removable it is imperative that a patient keep their Invisalign in for 22 hours every single day. Less time with the aligners can slow down the process of your teeth shifting into place.
For both metal braces and aligners it is important to have frequent meetings with your dentist or orthodontist. For metal braces, the braces need to be tightened frequently in order to progress the treatment. For aligners you will actually need to swap out the aligners once a set is no longer needed.
Another thing to consider is oral care. Brushing and especially flossing can go a long way in promoting both a healthier smile and a quicker orthodontic experience. Whether you have traditional metal braces or Invisalign braces, removing plaque from your teeth and keeping your teeth healthy makes it easier for them to shift into their new placements.
Does Invisalign Work For Every Orthodontic Treatment?
Unfortunately no, many orthodontists only recommend Invisalign aligners for mild to moderate orthodontic solutions. This includes overbites, cross bites, underbites, crowded teeth, and spaces between teeth. During a visit with either a dentist or your orthodontist they might have recommendations based on the severity of your orthodontic issues.
Get Invisalign Braces in Swampscott
If you live in the Swampscott Massachusetts area and are interested in Invisalign braces for your oral health, please give us a call, we would be happy to discuss orthodontic solutions including Invisalign.