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June 28, 2023For thousands of years, people have straightened their smiles with orthodontics for more than just aesthetic reasons. Plenty of overall health benefits go hand in hand with straightened teeth. Due to modern technology in dentistry, there are new ways to fix crooked teeth instead of using traditional braces. Invisalign is one of these advancements. There are many benefits of Invisalign, but one of the most common reasons people choose this method is because it allows you to straighten your smile without a mouthful of metal.
What Is Invisalign
For most people, straightening teeth is done to improve their appearance. Overbites, underbites, and crooked teeth can have a negative effect on self-esteem. However, teeth should be straightened for more reasons than aesthetics. Major dental issues can occur if teeth are left unstraightened such as periodontal disease, gum disease, or breakage of jaw bone tissue. Straightened teeth reduce these risks because they are easier to maintain and remove harmful bacteria. Straight teeth can also open airways or align the jaw, reducing sleep apnea, aches, or discomfort.
Traditional Braces
Most people have seen traditional braces in their lifetime; they are made up of tiny metal bits attached to each tooth with a metal wire connecting them. The pieces of metal are used to shift the teeth using different-sized wires, rubber bands, and a replacement of brackets. These braces require frequent visits to the dentist so that necessary adjustments can be made.
Traditional braces can be challenging to clean; they require special tools to remove all bacteria. These braces can also limit wearers from eating certain foods such as caramel candy, popcorn, and more; otherwise, the metal brackets may break off.
Invisible Aligners
Invisalign is a newer technology designed to straighten teeth. Modern scanners are used to non-invasively scan your teeth and develop aligners that fit perfectly. These aligners are created with a medical-grade polyurethane resin and will slowly adjust the teeth. Since they are custom-made, these aligners are practically invisible.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is removable; however, it must be worn for 22 hours a day to have the desired effect. When worn correctly, the overall treatment can last between 12 and 18 months, and improvements will be noticeable within the first 3 months. Invisalign should be taken out while eating or drinking; this doesn’t limit which foods you can eat as opposed to traditional braces.
The Benefits Of Invisalign
More Comfortable
As mentioned before, traditional braces are made of metal brackets. These brackets have sharp edges which sometimes dig into the cheeks and lips, leaving sores that can be difficult to heal. Since Invisalign is custom-made for your teeth, they have smooth edges creating no discomfort.
Allow Better Hygiene
Invisalign makes it easier to care for your dental hygiene. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign can be removed so you can brush and floss as usual. Metal braces can collect food and plaque and are more challenging to clean since they are stuck to your teeth.
Fix Dental Problems
Crooked teeth can cause a variety of dental problems, including the development of gum disease. Invisalign can reduce gum inflammation, bad breath, chipping teeth, and sensitivity. Invisalign can also correct an overbite or underbite; when untreated, these bites can cause tooth erosion, chewing issues, speech difficulties, or jaw aches.
Non-Invasive Scanning
Traditional X-rays involve plastic pieces that open your mouth, allowing the scan to fully depict your teeth. These plastic pieces are also used when traditional braces are put on. However, advanced technology allows a non-invasive scan to create an Invisalign treatment. This 3D scanning technology can thoroughly scan a patient’s teeth without impressions, X-rays, and other invasive methods.
There are many benefits of Invisalign; it is a conventional way to straighten your teeth comfortably. Invisalign makes it easier to eat, drink and clean your teeth normally. In addition, straightening your teeth can reduce health issues and give you confidence in your smile. Knox Mountain Dentistry offers Invisalign services; visit our website today to learn more about how you can get started!