What Makes You Eligible for Invisalign?

What Makes You Eligible for Invisalign?

If you are considering orthodontic treatment and wish to pursue Invisalign, you may be wondering if you’re an eligible patient. Continue reading to learn more about Invisalign, as well as what makes you eligible for treatment.

Why is Orthodontic Treatment Important?

While crooked or misaligned teeth may be a large source of discomfort or embarrassment for some people, others may find themselves wondering why it is important to pursue a straighter smile if they are not bothered by the state of their teeth as they are.

The truth is that a straight smile is a healthy smile. Individuals with orthodontic issues may commonly experience:

• Difficulty flossing and cleaning between teeth
• Food becoming stuck between teeth
• Difficulty chewing or speaking
• Increased risk of cavities (especially between teeth)
• Increased risk of infection
• Increased risk of gum disease

If your dentist has recommended that you pursue orthodontic treatment, this recommendation goes far beyond simply achieving an aesthetically pleasing smile. Correcting the alignment and spacing of the smile is a proactive measure that is also taken to preserve the health of the teeth and gums – ultimately preserving the health of the rest of the body, as well.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system that is designed to discreetly correct the alignment of teeth through the use of clear, customised aligner trays.

Treatment is completed using a series of trays; each set of trays focuses on correcting a specific area of the mouth to ensure that each section of the mouth receives the treatment it needs. The patient will wear each set of trays for about one week before switching to the next set. The number of trays that are used throughout treatment typically varies from person to person and is dependent upon the amount of correction that is needed.

Traditional metal braces typically take anywhere between 12 and 24 months to complete orthodontic treatment. Invisalign patients usually finish treatment around – or even before – 12 months, making Invisalign a preferable treatment method for many people.

Invisalign is completely removable, which allows for an unrestricted diet – unlike with traditional metal braces.

Traditionally, when undergoing orthodontic treatment you would need to avoid foods such as hard or sticky candies, corn on the cob, and popcorn. Thankfully, Invisalign liners can be removed at any time, permitting you to enjoy the foods you love. You simply need to ensure that you wear your trays for a minimum of 22 hours each day and maintain proper hygienic care by brushing and flossing twice daily.

Do I Qualify for Invisalign?

Invisalign is an excellent treatment method – especially for those who are looking to discreetly straighten their teeth – but it is important to ensure that Invisalign is right for you. While some patients may benefit greatly from the use of Invisalign for their orthodontic treatment, others may find that traditional metal braces may suit them and treatment much better.

Invisalign is useful in the following scenarios:

• Crooked teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Cross-bite
• Mild cases of crowding
• Spaces or gaps in the smile
• Minor midline movements (below 2mm)

Invisalign is a fantastic option for teens and adults due to its discretion – many teens struggle with their self-image, even before undergoing orthodontic treatment, and adults who place a strong emphasis on their physical appearance for professionalism at work often find that their life remains largely interrupted by Invisalign treatment.

As previously stated, there are cases in which Invisalign may simply not be the best route to take; this is usually due to the complexity of the case or the age of the patient. Scenarios in which Invisalign may not be the best option include:

• Extreme crowding
• Large gaps or spaces in the smile
• Pre-existing dental work (such as dental bridges)
• Major midline movements (over 2mm)
• Pre-existing gum disease
• Pre-existing cavities (all damaged or decayed teeth must be restored prior to treatment)

It is also important to consider that Invisalign may not be a great option for young children, or for individuals with motor disabilities.

Young children may not understand the importance of wearing their trays for the minimum 22 hours each day, essentially rendering their treatment useless. Individuals with motor disabilities may lack the dexterity needed to take their trays and place them back inside the mouth, which can make it nearly impossible for them to successfully keep their teeth clean.

Consult Your Dentist or Orthodontist

The best way to determine if you are an ideal candidate for Invisalign is to consult your trusted dentist or orthodontist. They will conduct a thorough examination to determine if you may benefit from Invisalign treatment.

This examination will usually typically consist of impressions, x-rays, and an oral exam. The current state of your mouth will be evaluated, and the desired outcome of treatment will be discussed. Your trusted dental professionals here at FY Smile are always happy to help you find the treatment that best suits your wants, needs, and lifestyle.

FY Smile: Your Local Dentist in Double Bay, Sydney.

If you’re in the Double Bay area and searching for the “best dentist near me”, search no longer. For the most comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry in Sydney, put your trust in FY Smile.

Your journey towards the beautiful smile of your dreams starts here. In addition to offering comprehensive orthodontic treatment options in Sydney, FY Smile is proud to operate as an official Digital Smile Design clinic. Our team of experts will work with you to design a beautiful smile that naturally complements your features and provides you with priceless confidence.

For more information about dental treatment in Sydney or to make an appointment at our Double Bay dental office, give us a call anytime at 02 8319 5557.