Am I a Candidate for Invisalign®?

Wish you could straighten teeth without traditional metal braces? Ask one of our Grand Rapids Invisalign® dentists if you’re a candidate for clear aligners.

Like the name suggests, Invisalign consists of nearly invisible aligners that fit over your teeth and gradually move them into optimal alignment. Our experienced dentists can not only help you fix crooked or overcrowded teeth but can correct bite issues as well with Invisalign.

 

Here’s what you need to know about Invisalign clear aligners and whether they are right for you.

What Invisalign Can Treat

In the past, Invisalign couldn’t treat severe bite issues. Today, our dentists can use SmartForce® attachments so most (if not all) of your orthodontic treatment is done with clear aligners.

SmartForce attachments are tooth-colored “bumps” we bond to the fronts of your teeth. These bumps gently push against your aligners so you can achieve the smile you want in less time.

Invisalign can treat a range of conditions, including:

• Crooked teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Cross bite
• Open bite

To learn if you’ll need SmartForce attachments, schedule a consultation with one of our Invisalign dentists.

Invisalign May Work for You If:

1) You’re Motivated to Wear Aligners

Have you ever covered your smile while someone was taking your picture? Your smile says a lot about your personality, which is why we recommend Invisalign for crooked teeth. During clear aligner treatment, you’ll need to wear Invisalign at least 20-22 hours a day.

Since aligners exert pressure on teeth to move, you’ll feel minor discomfort for the first day wearing a new set. However, many of our patients feel that the temporary pain is worth having a beautifully straight smile.

2) Your Jaw is Done Growing

We recommend Invisalign for patients who are no longer growing or losing baby teeth. It’s also been our experience that teenagers and adults are more motivated to straighten teeth because they know what it feels like to be self-conscious while smiling.

While your child could wear Invisalign as early as 12 years of age, you’ll need to think of what’s best for them. Is your child disciplined enough to wear Invisalign 20 to 22 hours a day? One of our dentists can also help you determine if clear aligners are the right choice for their smile.

3) You Want Discreet Orthodontic Treatment

Hate the thought of metal on your teeth? Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, which means you’ll be able to straighten teeth without anyone immediately knowing. Many of our patients appreciate that Invisalign can’t easily be seen by friends, co-workers, and family members.

It’s never too late to get the smile you’ve always wanted. If you’re seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult, our dentists may recommend Invisalign. Many of our patients are able to achieve the smiles they want between 12 and 18 months.

4) You Want to Improve Your Oral Health

Are crooked teeth preventing you from being able to brush and floss like you should? If so, our dentists may recommend Invisalign for teeth straightening. Plaque and tartar love to hide where toothbrush bristles can’t reach.

Over time, you’ll develop cavities and gum disease from untreated plaque buildup. Fortunately, our Invisalign dentists can recommend aligners to correct crowded teeth. Bonus: cleaning Invisalign aligners is much easier compared to braces because they’re removable!

5) You Have Little to No Bite Issues

A misaligned bite can cause jaw pain and even TMJ disorder if not treated. Fortunately, our dentists will be able to determine the best method for teeth straightening so you can continue to enjoy good oral health.

If you have severe issues with your bite, we may refer you to an orthodontist so you can get the care you need. Otherwise, Invisalign braces can be used if you have little to no issues with your bite.

Request an Appointment

If you would like to improve your smile, contact our Invisalign dentists in Grand Rapids, MI, today. We’ll help you determine whether you’d benefit from wearing clear aligners. To schedule an appointment, call Contemporary Family Dental at (616) 209-3969.

This blog post has been updated.