As a teen or young adult, wearing braces can be a major milestone- and one you’re likely not eager to repeat. In fact, between the discomfort, the daily struggles to keep them clean, and the dietary restrictions, even if their teeth have shifted out of alignment, many patients don’t want to go through the hassle of wearing wires and brackets again. The good news is that there’s an alternative to traditional braces that could put an end to all the above. Here’s a little bit more about Invisalign, and how this treatment could straighten your teeth even if you’ve already tried other orthodontic appliances before!
Why Did My Teeth Shift?
When you finally get your braces off, there’s a certain freedom that many patients experience. They are finally able to enjoy a beautiful, even smile- all without obstruction from wires and brackets. In some cases, especially with teens and young adults, it can be tempting to forgo wearing the retainer and enjoy their new smile equipment-free. But this is a bad idea- and one that usually ends in their teeth shifting back out of alignment.
In addition to not wearing your retainer, your pearly whites can also shift out of alignment naturally with age, especially if you’ve suffered permanent tooth loss due to gum disease or severe decay, or if you grind your teeth (bruxism).
Can I Still Get Invisalign if I’ve Had Braces in the Past?
Because braces are extremely noticeable and a big time and energy commitment, many adult patients are naturally hesitant to get them again. This can sometimes cause them to avoid re-treatment entirely. However, there’s good news! Even if you’ve had traditional orthodontics in the past, you could still qualify for Invisalign. These discreet, comfortable aligners fit over the teeth and gently guide them into a more ideal position in less time than traditional braces. They’re completely removable for meals and oral hygiene, so there are no dietary restrictions. Better still, most people find them more comfortable than old-fashioned wires and brackets, and because they’re translucent, far more discreet and professional looking, too!
While your dentist is the best person to determine if you qualify for Invisalign, this versatile treatment is the ideal solution for a variety of alignment problems, including crowding, crooked teeth, over, under, cross, and open bites. They may even be able to help patients with certain dental restorations.
How Can I Protect My Invisalign Results?
If you do qualify for Invisalign, the best way to ensure that your results last a lifetime is to take excellent care of your smile. During treatment, it is important to be compliant with the cleaning and wear schedule. Always remove your trays to eat or drink anything but water, and brush and floss before putting them back on. Furthermore, make sure you’re wearing them for at least 22 hours a day.
Following treatment, wear your retainers as directed by your dentist, and don’t forget to brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist every six months for your regular checkups and cleanings.
Remember, while the idea of redoing your orthodontic treatment may seem overwhelming at first, the good news is that clear aligners could help make straightening your smile a lot easier and more comfortable the second time around. To learn more about Invisalign and see if you qualify, schedule a consultation with your dentist today.
About Dr. Alhossin
Dr. Anas Alhossin earned his dental degree at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, where he graduated with honors, and completed his postgraduate program at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Since then, he has become a regular at the prestigious Dawson Academy, and a proud, active member of the American Dental Association, Massachusetts Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Laser Study Club. To schedule a consultation at Raynham Dental for Invisalign, visit our website or call 508-880-4910.