Does Invisalign Really Work Without Causing Tooth Problems

Does Invisalign really work? This treatment is often marketed as a more convenient alternative to braces, but some patients are concerned about its effectiveness. Invisalign® may sound too good to be true — patients do not have to worry about avoiding certain foods that may become stuck in traditional braces.

Does Invisalign really work?

Like traditional braces, Invisalign® is designed to correct crooked teeth, crowded teeth and gaps. Instead of periodically having wires tightened like with braces, Invisalign® patients are given a series of near-invisible aligners. Each successive set of aligners is designed to push the patient's teeth closer to their ideal alignment.

What factors cause Invisalign® not to work?

One of the advantages of Invisalign® is that it can be taken out when a patient needs to eat or brush their teeth. However, this advantage can quickly become a disadvantage when patients are non-compliant. Most dental professionals advise their patients that they need to wear their Invisalign® trays as close to 23 hours per day as possible.

Because it is easy to remove Invisalign® at any point, some patients go for several hours without wearing their aligners. Even in this relatively short period, it is possible to lose progress. Each time a patient goes without aligners, teeth can shift back to where they were before treatment. When done frequently, this can result in Invisalign® treatment not working.

Does Invisalign really work for all dental issues?

Invisalign® can be used to correct almost every issue that traditional braces can. However, for certain severe issues, a patient's dentist may recommend alternative treatment. For patients with the following issues, Invisalign® may not be effective:

  • Extremely crowded teeth
  • Teeth rotated more than 20 degrees
  • Very large gaps between teeth
  • Existing dental bridges or similar types of dental work
  • Unusually shaped teeth
  • Before prescribing Invisalign® or a similar orthodontic treatment, a dental professional will thoroughly examine a patient's teeth to see whether Invisalign® is the right option.

    Can Invisalign® cause tooth problems?

    When used correctly, Invisalign® will not cause tooth problems. Patients do need to be very careful to brush their teeth before putting aligners back in. Because aligners fit very tightly to the teeth, they stop saliva from reaching the teeth's surface. Without saliva, food particles cannot be efficiently broken down, and plaque, cavities and other dental issues may occur.

    In order to avoid potential problems, Invisalign® patients should make sure they brush and floss their teeth after eating and before placing the aligners. The prescribing provider will usually go over optimal dental hygiene with a patient before fitting them with their first set of aligners.

    Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Services in Peabody, MA.

    Conclusion

    Patients who have been wondering, "Does Invisalign® really work?" may be relieved to know that with careful compliance and good dental hygiene, the answer is almost always yes. For patients interested in Invisalign® for achieving a better smile, it is a good idea to reach out to a dental professional to make an appointment.

    Request an appointment or call Northside Dental Care, PC at 978-206-7077 for an appointment in our Peabody office.

    Recent Posts

    Few People Will Notice You're Wearing Invisalign

    Invisalign involves clear plastic aligners that you wear over the teeth throughout the day.Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic aligners that are customized to the teeth of each individual patient. Invisalign is discreet, so few will know you are wearing aligners. Start straightening your smile with Invisalign today.Does Invisalign Really WorkAt Northside Dental Care,…

    3 Key Benefits Of Dental Implants

    Those missing teeth and seeking a way to restore their smile should consider dental implants. Dentists and their patients are discovering the many benefits of this tooth-replacement over other options, such as dentures and bridges. If you are missing one or more teeth like so many adults, dental implants offer a way to restore your…

    Dental Implants Vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options

    Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option among dental professionals. They offer an array of benefits that other tooth replacement options do not, which is why they are often considered state-of-the-art. However, not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, and dental bridges or dentures are a better fit for some patients. Patients should…

Northside Dental Care, PC

Share
Published by
Northside Dental Care, PC

Recent Posts

3 Key Benefits of Dental Implants

Those missing teeth and seeking a way to restore their smile should consider dental implants.…

3 days ago

Dental Implants vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options

Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option among dental professionals. They offer an array…

4 days ago

Bring Back a Stronger Smile With Implant Supported Dentures

With normal dentures, it may not be easy to consume certain foods.

1 week ago

How To Fix Dental Implant Failure

Dental implants are an effective replacement for missing and damaged teeth. There are, however, some…

1 week ago

Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

Dental implants have become widely popular as a natural-looking tooth replacement solution. Not only do…

2 weeks ago

Factors To Consider Before Opting for Dental Implants

Dental implants can be an effective tooth replacement option for anyone missing one or a…

3 weeks ago