The Invisalign Advantage: Unveiling the Discreet Path to a Straighter Smile

Braces have become so commonplace that they're practically a rite of passage. According to History Facts, about 50% of American children need orthodontic treatment at some point. As an adult, however, you may not feel comfortable wearing metal wires and brackets on your teeth.

Instead, consider transparent braces. Clear aligners are discreet, comfortable, and effective at teeth straightening!

Not sure if Invisalign treatment suits your needs? Read on to learn more about these invisible braces today.

Discreet Appearance

One of the top benefits of Invisalign treatment is the discretion they offer. Traditional metal braces use metal brackets and wires. Your orthodontic appliances may draw attention each time you smile.

Clear aligners, on the other hand, are made using a thin, clear plastic. Their flexible, thermoplastic material (SmartTrack) is less conspicuous than traditional braces.

They're not entirely invisible. However, they are much less noticeable than metal wires and brackets. The aligners will fit tightly yet comfortably around your teeth to draw them into alignment. 

People won't realize you're wearing your aligners as you receive treatment. You won't have to worry about changes to your appearance. This makes Invisalign ideal for adults (especially those in professional settings). 

Comfortable Wear

Some patients need a few months to adjust to wearing metal wires and brackets. They often need to visit a dentist to have their traditional metal braces adjusted. This can cause additional discomfort.

Clear aligners, on the other hand, are made of smooth plastic. They won't make your mouth feel sore. You also won't have to worry about them cutting your gums, tongue, or cheek.

The comfort they offer can make treatment easier. Otherwise, treatment with traditional metal braces may affect your quality of life. 

Ease and Convenience

Traditional metal braces are sometimes difficult to maintain. For example, food particles can get stuck between the wires and brackets. You may have a difficult time cleaning your metal braces.

While receiving Invisalign treatment, you can remove your invisible braces to eat or brush your teeth. Removing your aligners reduces the likelihood of damage and discoloration.

Your clear aligners are easy to clean. Brush them using lukewarm water or soak them in a cleaning solution to remove bacteria and plaque. Cleaning your aligners ensures they remain clear and discreet.

You also won't have to worry about adjusting your diet. Since you can remove your aligners, you can eat whatever you want.

You have to avoid certain foods (including crunchy or sticky snacks) with traditional metal braces. Otherwise, these foods can get stuck between your braces or cause damage.

To avoid the inconvenience, talk to your Fairfax dentist about invisible braces. You can receive treatment without stress. 

Reduced Risk of Oral Disease

Straightening your teeth with clear aligners can reduce your risk of oral diseases. Crooked teeth are more difficult to brush and floss. Food particles can mix with bacteria and saliva to form plaque, a tacky substance that clings to your teeth.

Plaque can harden into tartar if you fail to brush it away. When it releases acid, cavities can form and eat away at your protective tooth enamel.

You may lose teeth, causing your remaining teeth to shift toward the gaps left behind. You may require expensive treatment to resolve your tooth decay before receiving orthodontic treatment.

Failing to thoroughly brush and floss also increases your risk of gum disease (gingivitis). Your gums may shift away from the gum line, increasing the likelihood of tooth loss. Gingivitis can increase your risk of serious conditions like:

• Heart disease
• Lung disease
• Diabetes
• Stroke

Teeth straightening solutions like Invisalign can reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease. You'll have an easier time maintaining good oral health and a beautiful smile. 

Dodge Bruxism

A misalignment between your top and bottom jaws can increase your risk of bruxism. Grinding your teeth at night can wear away your protective tooth enamel. Your risk of tooth decay and other complications may rise.

Bruxism can cause:

• Soreness
• Headaches
• Sensitivity
• Tight jaw muscles
• Pain and discomfort
• Loose or chipped teeth
• Sleep issues

Before you experience these symptoms, visit your Fairfax dentist. Invisalign treatment can align your jaws, reducing the risk of complications.

Avoid Injuries

Do some of your teeth jut out at awkward angles? Talk to your dentist about clear aligners. Straightening your teeth with Invisalign can reduce your risk of injuries or losing teeth.

Otherwise, you could knock out a crooked tooth during a sporting or car accident. Beginning treatment can protect your smile from additional damage. 

Improved Self-Confidence

Having crooked teeth can affect your self-esteem. You may start hiding your smile or avoiding social situations. 

You're not alone. According to a survey conducted by OnePoll, three in five Americans hate how their smiles look. Instead of smiling, some people cover their mouths.

A beautiful smile allows you to make a strong first impression on the people you meet. When meeting someone new, 76% of people say they most often notice a stranger's smile. Making a strong first impression can benefit you in professional and social settings. 

Potentially Shorter Treatment Times

Choosing Invisalign over traditional metal braces could shorten your treatment times. According to this review, treatment with Invisalign was finished an average of 30% (5.7 months) faster than treatment with fixed appliances.

However, the duration of your treatment plan will vary based on the severity of your orthodontic issues. Schedule a consultation appointment with your Fairfax dentist to discuss your Invisalign treatment plan. 

Receive Your Transparent Braces Today

Having crooked teeth can affect your oral health, overall health, and quality of life. Instead of choosing traditional metal braces, consider transparent braces to straighten your smile. With treatment, you can grin with renewed self-confidence in your health and appearance.

Choosing an experienced dentist can make all the difference to your treatment plan. Our team at Braddock Family Dental provides excellent, affordable dental solutions. As a people-oriented practice, we'll design a treatment plan based on your individual needs. 

Trust our comprehensive dental services, state-of-the-art technology, and commitment to patient education. Contact us now to schedule your consultation appointment.