You’re finally ready to get the straight teeth you’ve been dreaming of, but then… a wedding comes up. Or a work event. Or graduation. And then it’s summer, so you’ll be out more, and do you really want to wear metal braces for the next couple of years?
We know as a working professional or parent (or both!) it’s hard to find the time to commit to braces treatment. Luckily, that’s where Invisalign comes in. If you want to straighten your teeth discreetly, Invisalign aligners might be the best adult orthodontic treatment option for you.
Dr. Sonia Sahi, general dentist and Vancouver Invisalign provider, can help you improve your smile without the hassle of metal braces (and the oral hygiene considerations and food restrictions that come with them). To help you get a clear picture of what treatment entails and what the benefits are, we’re covering all things adult Invisalign in this post.
How does Invisalign work?
Invisalign for adults consists of a series of smooth, clear plastic trays that are molded to fit over your teeth. For optimal results, it is recommended that patients wear them for at least 22 hours daily.
After your Vancouver Invisalign dentist analyzes the position of your teeth and jaw, she’ll digitally design your ideal smile. This will be achieved by creating a treatment plan on a 3D model of your mouth. The Invisalign lab will then print a series of custom Invisalign aligners according to her specifications.
Each aligner should fit over your teeth seamlessly, like an undetectable, much more comfortable mouthguard. Invisalign aligners exert steady pressure to shift your teeth into their desired location. Each set is customized to achieve specific tooth movements. As you work through the series of aligners, typically changing them every one to two weeks, your smile will gradually take shape bit by bit!
What can Invisalign fix? Invisalign may be effective for correcting a crossbite, underbite, overbite, open bite, crowded teeth, or widely spaced teeth.
Invisalign benefits
Now to the big question: Is Invisalign worth it for adults? Here are some key benefits to help you decide:
May reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease
When your teeth are straight and in alignment, it becomes easier to clean them and more effectively keep plaque at bay. Proper oral hygiene is a major factor in helping to prevent gum disease, cavities, tooth loss, bad breath (halitosis), and other oral health issues.
Improves function
Misaligned teeth can make biting, chewing, and even speaking clearly a challenge, and malocclusion, or a bad bite, can lead to uneven wear of the enamel and chipped or fractured teeth. One of the goals of Invisalign treatment is to create a stable, healthy bite (the way the upper and lower teeth come together). This promotes proper chewing, speaking, and contact between the teeth.
Can alleviate jaw pain in some cases
If an imbalance in your bite is causing jaw pain, correcting misalignment could be a good first step in alleviating symptoms and allowing your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) to heal.
Discreet
Invisalign aligners are made from a BPA-free, clear, thermoplastic material. Most people won’t be able to tell you’re wearing them, so your entire treatment process never has to interfere with special occasions or events.
Convenient
The smooth plastic aligners won’t irritate your mouth like metal braces and require fewer appointments as they don’t require adjustments. Adult Invisalign has zero food restrictions since you can take out your aligners to drink, eat, floss, and brush. The removable aligners also help to make your oral hygiene routine a breeze!
Creates a confident smile
Just like any orthodontic treatment, Invisalign for adults can enhance the appearance of your smile and face, giving you a boost in confidence and self-esteem.
How long does Invisalign take?
The length of your Invisalign treatment depends on how much correction you need. Since you wear clear aligners at home, it also depends on how strictly you stick to your treatment plan. Typically, Invisalign treatment lasts anywhere from 6-18 months.
How much does Invisalign cost in BC?
Your Invisalign cost will be determined by the severity of your case. Once our Vancouver Invisalign dentist, Dr. Sahi, determines a diagnosis and treatment plan, we’ll be able to give you an accurate price.
If you have insurance that covers orthodontic care, it can reduce your out-of-pocket Invisalign cost. At Nest Dental, we accept most insurance plans in BC, and we’ll work with you to help you make the most of your benefits. We also offer flexible financing options so getting a smile you love fits your budget.
Is Invisalign worth it for adults?
Invisalign offers a number of oral health and personal benefits, including creating a more confident smile, so for many, yes, Invisalign is worth it at any age.
Interested in Invisalign in Vancouver? Find out if you’re a candidate for Invisalign by scheduling an appointment at Nest Dental today.
