Common Myths About Invisalign Debunked

Invisalign has changed the game for straightening teeth, offering a clear alternative to traditional braces. But with so many opinions floating around, it can be hard to know what’s true. If you’ve heard mixed messages about Invisalign, let’s clear things up. Here are seven common myths about Invisalign—debunked!

Myth 1: Invisalign Takes Longer Than Traditional Braces

The Truth: Not necessarily! Invisalign can be just as fast as traditional braces, depending on your situation. Most people finish their Invisalign treatment in 12 to 18 months. The key is wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Stick to that schedule, and your new smile could appear quicker than you think! When you get to the end of your treatment, we will evaluate if any further refinement trays are needed to fine-tune your smile goals.

Myth 2: Invisalign Can’t Fix Complex Issues

The Truth: Many believe Invisalign is only for minor adjustments, but that’s far from true. Invisalign can correct a variety of problems—crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and more. While some extreme cases may still require traditional braces, advances in Invisalign technology mean it can handle more complex issues than ever before. For more complex cases, it’s more common to need small, tooth-colored Invisalign SmartForce attachments, commonly called buttons, on the teeth.

Myth 3: You Can Eat Anything With Invisalign in

The Truth:: Sorry, but no eating with Invisalign in. You’ll need to take out your aligners before meals and drinks (other than water). Eating with them in can damage the aligners or cause them to stain. The good news? You’re not restricted on what you can eat like with braces. Enjoy your favorite foods—just remember to brush and pop your aligners back in!

Myth 4: Invisalign Aligners Are Painful

The Truth: While you might feel some pressure when switching to a new set of aligners (this means they’re doing their job), Invisalign is generally less painful than braces. There are no sharp wires or brackets to poke your mouth, and any discomfort usually fades after a day or two. When you first get them, some patients do notice chapped lips.

Myth 5: Invisalign is Only for Adults

The Truth: Invisalign isn’t just for adults! Invisalign Teen is designed specifically for younger patients. It allows teens to straighten their teeth without the metal brackets, making it easier to participate in sports, eat what they like, and maintain confidence during treatment. Plus, it comes with indicators that track how long the aligners are being worn, ensuring they stay on schedule.

Myth 6: Invisalign is More Expensive Than Braces

The Truth: The cost of Invisalign is usually comparable to traditional braces. While the price can vary based on the complexity of your case, many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign just like they do braces. You can also ask your dentist about financing options to make the treatment more budget-friendly.

Myth 7: Invisalign Aligners Are Hard to Care for

The Truth: Keeping your aligners clean and clear is easy. Rinse them with lukewarm water and brush gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the aligners. Following these steps will keep your aligners fresh and effective throughout your treatment.

Invisalign at Altitude Family Dental in Gypsum, CO

Ready to explore Invisalign but still have questions? At Altitude Family Dental in Gypsum, CO, Dr. Josh Rudin and Dr. Greg Adair are here to guide you through the process. We’ll help you separate fact from fiction and ensure that Invisalign is the right choice for your smile. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward straighter, healthier teeth!

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Categorised in: Orthodontics