When it comes to straightening your teeth and achieving that dazzling, healthy smile, there are several options on the market, including Invisalign Teen® and Invisalign®. These two dental procedures are considered some of the most incredible innovations in orthodontics over the past two decades.
The option to straighten ones teeth without braces, by relying on a series of precisely calibrated, nearly-undetectable custom-made aligners that you change after every stage of your treatment, has encouraged millions of patients with dental issues to pursue orthodontic treatment. But as exciting as this technology is, many people still have questions about Invisalign. For these people to feel comfortable with the technology, it is necessary to separate truth from myths.
Myth #1: Invisalign treatment takes twice as long as braces.
Truth: Generally, teeth adjust at the same rate with Invisalign as with braces. But actually, a patient’s intrinsic mannerisms, like bite force and bone metabolism, are what really influence how fast the teeth will move. This is why some patients improve faster than others. Furthermore, the intricacy of a patient’s bite, with regard to the severity of their overbite/underbite or crowding/spacing, also determines how long the treatment will take.
Myth #2: Invisalign is only for adults.
Truth: Numerous patients over 60 and 70 years have been successfully treated with Invisalign, while Invisalign Teen makes it possible to treat patients as soon as baby teeth have been shed. Invisalign can be done for people of all ages and season of life.
Myth #3: Invisalign is too expensive.
Truth: Actually, the cost is comparable to traditional braces. Invisalign is an FDA approved treatment, which means that it can be covered under orthodontics insurance. Many people are held back from seeking the treatment because they think that it is too expensive, and that it may affect their insurance benefits. Fortunately, many big insurance providers cover a certain percentage of Invisalign, making the treatment more accessible for those looking to improve their smile.
Myth #4: Invisalign can only be used to correct simple problems.
Truth: Invisalign can be used to correct nearly every dental problem, including both the simple and complex issues. As with other technologies, Invisalign has been constantly evolving, and has changed considerably over the past ten years. So, patients who may not have been suitable candidates for Invisalign may now qualify for the treatment
Myth #5: Any Orthodontist can successfully perform the Invisalign treatment.
Truth: There is a considerable variation in the level of knowledge and experience of Invisalign among orthodontists, so each doctor’s skill and training will be the determining factor for the success or failure of every case.
Dr. Hadaegh is a certified Invisalign orthodontist in Beverly Hills.
To increase your chances of a successful Invisalign procedure, it is important that you seek treatment from an certified orthodontist with advanced training and experience, because they understand diagnosis and tooth movement better than a general dentist.
He can be contacted online or at his office @ 310.659.5399.