Invisalign: Know Before you Go

If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign, you probably already know it’s a pretty amazing dental advancement. That being said, you probably also have some questions that you’d like answered before you commit. Here, we hope to answer your questions, and maybe some questions you hadn’t even thought to ask.

As you probably already know, Invisalign is a method of straightening teeth using nearly invisible aligners, made from impressions taken of your teeth. These impressions are scanned, and these digital scans are used to create a digital model that will tell your dentist how long your treatment should last and how your final results will look. Your dentist can modify the plan, based on your, and some dentists discuss the plan with their patients before modifying it so that the patient’s expectations and preferences can be considered.

Invisalign has many benefits over conventional braces.

  • The clear aligners are more aesthetically pleasing than braces.
  • Invisalign often works more quickly than conventional braces, because they move many teeth at once, and fewer dental visits are required.
  • Because they have no wires or sharp corners, Invisalign aligners are more comfortable than braces.
  • Invisalign can move teeth differently than braces can, using less force so there’s not as much risk of shrinking of tooth roots.
  • It’s easier to clean your teeth when you can remove your aligners, so your breath will be better.
  • When worn 20 hours each day, Invisalign can help relieve TMD symptoms and myofascial pain.
  • After your treatment is complete, you can use your aligners as whitening trays or a mouthguard.

With all those positive marks, are there any downsides to Invisalign? Actually, yes, but not many.

  • You may lisp for a few days, as you get used to having your teeth covered in plastic. If it’s a problem, though, you can always remove the aligners for a little while if you need to be heard clearly.
  • Even though they’re more comfortable than braces, the aligners can still irritate your tongue, gums, and lips.
  • Rarely, someone has an allergic reaction to Invisalign. When that happens, the patient receives a full refund.
  • At the beginning of your treatment, you may have trouble removing your aligners when it’s time to eat.
  • Some providers may charge more for Invisalign than traditional braces.
  • You might lose weight, because you’ll have to stop and remove your aligners before eating or snacking. Of course, this may be a mark in your positive column!

If you have questions about Invisalign or are looking for a dentist in New York, consider Park 56 Dental Group, where we provide personalized, quality dental care in a spa-like environment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.