Although traditional braces were once seen as a necessary evil for a beautiful smile, that’s no longer the case. Now, more than 70% of orthodontists throughout the U.S. and Canada are certified to treat with Invisalign braces — allowing patients to achieve straight teeth without discomfort or undesirable aesthetics.
But as popular as Invisalign is, this orthodontic treatment still raises a lot of questions for patients. And even though it’s become significantly more accessible in recent years, some people still believe that Invisalign braces are too expensive or too much of a commitment for them to handle. The reality is that this treatment is one of the most effective ways to address many prevalent dental issues (and it’s likely more affordable than you think). Let’s take a look at the “tooth” behind some common Invisalign misconceptions below.
MISCONCEPTION: Invisalign Braces Are Prohibitively Expensive
A lot of patients will dismiss the idea of getting clear aligners because they assume this option is too expensive. The reality, however, is that Invisalign and traditional braces have comparable costs. And since many insurance policies do cover Invisalign, you may be able to incur lower out-of-pocket costs. Keep in mind that paying for clear aligners can also decrease your long-term dental and orthodontic costs; by taking care of problems now, your oral healthcare costs may end up being lower in the end.
MISCONCEPTION: Invisalign Treatment Takes Too Long to Complete
Some people believe that because Invisalign treatment involves receiving several sets of aligners, the process will take longer to complete. But actually, the process of correcting alignment through traditional braces can take far longer. In many cases, patients have to wear braces for two years to see results, while Invisalign wearers can complete their treatment in a little over a year. It’s also important to note that Invisalign requires fewer visits to your orthodontist, which can cut down on time spent on this endeavor. That said, completing your Invisalign treatment in a shorter amount of time requires you to wear your aligners as directed!
MISCONCEPTION: Invisalign Braces Are Appropriate For All Patients
Invisalign can correct a number of orthodontic issues, but it’s not necessarily the right treatment for everyone. You may not be a good candidate for Invisalign if you have more serious orthodontic issues, if you smoke, or if you snack frequently throughout the day. In addition, Invisalign may not be the right treatment for you if you feel you aren’t responsible enough to properly care for your aligners or wear them for the recommended amount of time each day. Your orthodontist can be a great source of information when determining the best treatment method for your situation.
Now that you’re well-informed, it might be time to explore whether Invisalign should be part of your orthodontic treatment plan. To schedule your appointment or to learn more, please contact our office today!
