Does Invisalign Really Work?

Traditional metal braces were once the only real option for correcting misaligned teeth, and that held true for decades.

Metal braces have always done a solid job of straightening teeth, but patients and orthodontists alike kept looking for another way to reach the same result.

The Invisalign system marked that turning point. By using advanced technology to produce a series of clear, custom trays, it gave patients an entirely new way to straighten their teeth.

So how well does Invisalign actually compare to traditional braces? We will answer that question below and walk through a few reasons it may be a strong choice for you.

Is Invisalign an Effective Teeth Straightening Option?

In short, yes. Years of research went into the system before it ever reached the market, and real world use across the globe since then has shown that Invisalign treatment can work extremely well.

In its early years, Invisalign was primarily marketed toward patients with mild misalignment. As orthodontists became more familiar with the technology over time, they found they could also address more moderate misalignment.

Now, with the addition of small buttons or attachments, Invisalign can typically address complex cases that were once considered treatable only with metal braces. Many patients are surprised to learn they may be good candidates for Invisalign even when their alignment issues are fairly involved.

What Are the Downsides of Invisalign?

One of Invisalign’s biggest advantages, the fact that the trays are removable, can also become its main drawback. Because patients can take the trays out, staying compliant with wear time becomes an important part of successful treatment.

Patients are generally asked to wear their trays nearly around the clock, taking them out only to eat, drink, and brush their teeth. When trays are not worn consistently, results can end up diminished or incomplete.

When trays are worn as directed, though, treatment can typically produce a straight, healthy smile that compares well to what traditional braces achieve.

Can Invisalign Handle More Complex Orthodontic Cases?

The range of cases Invisalign can address has expanded significantly over the years. Thanks to advances in the technology and growing experience among orthodontists, cases once considered out of reach for Invisalign are now routinely treated with strong results.

Some of the issues Invisalign can commonly help correct include the following.

• Overbites
• Underbites
• Crowded teeth
• Gaps

In some of these more involved cases, small fixtures may need to be added to certain teeth so the aligners can apply the pressure necessary to shift them into place.

Those fixtures, often called buttons, are small and shaded to match your natural tooth color. Once treatment wraps up, they are simply removed.

What Else Should You Know About Invisalign?

Invisalign offers a strong alternative to metal braces and can now be used for a wide range of cases, including more complex ones. If you are thinking about Invisalign to help correct misaligned teeth, reach out to The Smile Architects at 704-875-1621.

Our team has experience working with Invisalign across both mild and complex cases. Contact us today to take the next step toward a healthier, straighter smile with Invisalign at The Smile Architects.