Invisalign Aligners – Advantages and Disadvantages
Very few of us are born with perfectly aligned teeth. For many people, teeth with minor misalignments are a cosmetic problem. For others, misaligned teeth can be a potentially major oral health problem. Serious misalignments, overbites, and underbites can lead to inadequate cleaning, bruxism or tooth grinding, and in some cases TMJ, or tempo-mandibular joint, disorders. Orthodontia can help realign teeth and prevent and fix both cosmetic and oral health problems.
Invisalign is one orthodontic treatment available today. Invisalign is a tooth straightening system that consists of custom-made, removable thermoplastic aligners that are comfortable to wear and practically invisible. Invisalign works by gradually and gently shifting teeth without using the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces. These clear aligners are changed every two weeks during the treatment time to move teeth one by one for accurate, structured adjustments. Fewer checkups are needed, making adjustments easier to fit into your busy life.
Even though they are more comfortable and gentle than traditional braces, there may still be some infrequent discomfort or pressure associated with the straightening process, in particular when a new tray is worn. The aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours a day for greatest benefit and just removed for meals or cleaning.
Since the aligners are removable, cleaning is not difficult. Brushing and flossing can be performed as usual, unlike other orthodontic devices requiring the use of special floss picks or threaders. The aligner should be brushed and rinsed well at least daily to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. They may also be cleaned with Cleaning Crystals provided by the Invisalign Company.
While Invisalign is an exciting and cosmetically-interesting alternative to traditional wire-and-bracket braces, it may not be an appropriate alternative for everyone. It is best for teens and adults with otherwise healthy adult teeth. If you have major crown work or bridge work, Invisalign may not be the perfect choice for you. If you have veneers, it is important to discuss your chioces for orthodontia with your Invisalign provider.
The final concern some people may have about orthodontia is the cost. The good news is that many dental insurers cover Invisalign much as they do other orthodontic work. The cost is generally comparable to traditional braces, and what is not covered may qualify for your flexible spending account or health care savings account pre-tax health care dollars. Some Invisalign providers may also choose to participate in financing programs to make it even easier for you to get the healthy, even teeth you want.
Dr. Sanaz Khoubnazar, dentist Santa Monica provides the residents of Santa Monica and neighbor cities with cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry treatments. This cosmetic dentist Santa Monica has years of experience in these treatments and is one of the most well-known dentists in the area.
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