Invisalign is Popular, But is it Suitable for You?
As an experienced orthodontist in the Illawarra who has centred my career on the philosophy that good ethics is good business, it’s important that I provide honest evaluations and recommendations for all prospective patients, especially when they come to South Coast Orthodontics for a free consultation.
In recent years, Invisalign has gained extreme popularity as a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces. However, it may not be suitable for you due to a multitude of reasons.
Firstly, Invisalign is primarily designed to treat mild to moderate orthodontic problems such as overcrowding, spacing, and minor bite issues. Therefore, if you have more complex orthodontic issues, such as severe malocclusion, you may require traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments. These cases need me to more precisely control and manipulate the teeth, which is better achieved with traditional braces.
Secondly, Invisalign requires a high level of commitment and compliance on your part. Aligners are removable, which means that you have the responsibility to wear them for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Failing to consistently wear the aligners as instructed will adversely impact the effectiveness of the treatment. In cases where you may lack discipline, traditional braces, which are fixed in place, may be a more suitable option.
Thirdly, Invisalign is generally recommended for adults and older teenagers whose permanent teeth have fully erupted. Young children and teens whose teeth are still growing and developing may not be suitable candidates for Invisalign. Traditional braces are often the preferred choice for younger patients as they allow for better control and adjustment throughout the orthodontic treatment process.
Furthermore, Invisalign primarily focuses on aligning the teeth and improving dental aesthetics. It is not the best option if you have significant skeletal discrepancies, such as a misaligned jaw or severe overbite/underbite.
Invisalign has its limitations in terms of the types of orthodontic issues it can effectively address. For example, complex tooth rotations, vertical movements, and certain bite corrections may be better suited for traditional braces. In such cases, a comprehensive orthodontic treatment plan that includes traditional braces and possibly orthognathic surgery may be necessary.
Also, if you’re not age appropriate, lack discipline, have complex orthodontic issues or skeletal discrepancies, traditional braces or alternative orthodontic treatments may be more suitable.
While Invisalign offers many benefits, it is not suitable for everyone seeking orthodontic treatment. The team and I at South Coast Orthodontics are committed to your safety, oral health and achieving your ultimate long term goal of a perfect smile. This may or may not be achieved with Invisalign. I know this may be disappointing to read because you may want the most discreet option. However, my job is to educate you and do what is right. If Invisalign is the right option, we’ll proceed. If it isn’t the right option, I’ll devise an alternative orthodontic treatment plan for you. Either way, you’ll thank me later like the thousands of other patients I’ve taken care of.
Yours truly,
Dr Kamal Ahmed
P.S. My goal in life is to become the best orthodontist in the Illawarra. Guess what the prize is? A little plaque.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
The length of Invisalign treatment varies depending on our patient’s specific needs. On average, treatment requires 6 months to several years, depending on the level of complexity. I will provide a more accurate timeline during your initial free consultation.
2. Are there any food restrictions with Invisalign?
One of the benefits of Invisalign is that there are no food restrictions. Unlike traditional braces, you can remove your aligners to eat and drink, so you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about damaging your treatment.
3. How often do I need to wear my Invisalign aligners?
For optimal results, I recommended that you wear your Invisalign aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. You should only remove them to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Consistently wearing your aligners as directed by myself and the South Coast Orthodontics team will ensure that your treatment progresses smoothly and efficiently.
