Want the perfect smile but feel like it’s out of reach? If you have been thinking about orthodontic treatment but worry that it may be too late, Invisalign for adults may be an excellent option. Designed with adults in mind, Invisalign offers a discreet way to achieve a better smile. This article delves further into not only why Invisalign is a great choice but the process of getting Invisalign, the benefits it offers, and the time commitment required.
Is it worth getting Invisalign as an adult?
Yes, it’s definitely worth getting Invisalign as an adult. You can straighten your teeth discreetly, and you can remove the aligner when you need to, like when you’re eating, brushing your teeth, or having your photo taken. Furthermore, maintaining oral hygiene is easier when you have a removable aligner.
Do Invisalign work for adults?
Yes, Invisalign works very well for adults. The aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth so that your teeth gradually shift into the right positions. Besides improving your smile, Invisalign helps with a variety of other dental issues, such as gaps, crowded teeth, and bite problems.[1] Invisalign works in the same way traditional braces do; the only different is they are made from a transparent plastic.
Are there any downsides to Invisalign?
While Invisalign for adults offers many benefits, there are some downsides to be aware of. You must wear the aligner for 20-22 hours a day for it to be effective. This requires a certain degree of discipline and commitment. They are also more expensive than traditional metal braces. Despite these downsides, many people find the pros outweigh the cons.
Benefits Beyond Aesthetics
When you choose professional Invisalign Vancouver Washington, you will discover quite a few benefits:
Oral Health Improvements
Many people turn to Invisalign to improve their smile. However, there are plenty of additional benefits this treatment offers. Here are some benefits you’ll see:
Easier to Clean Your Teeth: Crooked teeth can create tight spaces where food particles can hide. This can increase your risk of both cavities and gum disease. Tight spaces can also make it harder to floss. With the Invisalign treatment, your teeth will be straighter, making flossing easier.
Reduced Risk of Gum Disease: When your teeth are straight, it’s easier to clean your gums. Crooked teeth can cause plaque to build up along the gumline. This can increase your chances of getting periodontal disease or gingivitis.
Improved Bite: For those who suffer from bite issues, such as underbites or overbites, straighter teeth can prevent uneven wear and tear on your teeth when you bite down or chew.[2]
Reduced Jaw Pain: Having an improper bite or crooked teeth can cause jaw pain, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.[4] By undergoing the Invisalign treatment, there will be less pressure on your jaw joints, reducing jaw pain.
Boost in Confidence
Being self-conscious or uncomfortable with your smile can lead to anxiety in social settings. However, with a great smile, you can significantly reduce this anxiety, allowing you to feel relaxed and confident.
Here are some testimonials from adults how have experienced a confidence boost from their new smiles.
They are a comfortable fit and removable when eating and cleaning. Saw visible results In 6 weeks and in 6 months my teeth were 90 percent straight. I used them longer because my eye teeth were sticking out like fangs on a vampire. Nice product Invisalign. – Martin
I am on week 33 of 99. I started with Invisalign at 60. My teeth have already straightened dramatically. My friends are already seeing an improvement. I just thought I would have my crooked teeth till the day I die. Unlike others, my crooked teeth didn’t stop me from smiling big smiles. I always got compliments on my bright, contagious smile. Only through my teenage years it bothered me. I’m curious as to anyone else out there, how the change affected your sinuses and breathing. I know we hold a lot of emotions in our teeth and gums. I feel like my body is letting go of stored emotions in these areas. – Nancy
I really love my smile now and it makes me happy. It’s really nice to be so comfortable smiling and feeling like myself. I’m more comfortable going out and spending time with friends. Invisalign is not uncomfortable and is really fast. With insurance it’s totally doable as it’s a lot cheaper than other ones I have seen. It only took under a year to get the smile I have been wanting. I can’t express enough how grateful I am for Invisalign and for the smile I can finally show everyone and be proud. – Abigail
The Process of Getting Invisalign for Adults In Vancouver, Washington
Initial Consultation
During your first visit, our orthodontist will discuss your goals and what you hope to achieve by getting Invisalign. We will also schedule a dental checkup and cleaning so we can check for any issues, such as cavities or gum disease, that need to be treated before starting the Invisalign treatment.
Custom Treatment Plan
The digital images will then be converted into a 3D model of your teeth. A 3D model allows our orthodontist to visualize every detail of your teeth and create a tailored treatment plan. We will go over the exact shifts your teeth will go through, from the beginning of the process to the end. We can even give you a virtual display of how your teeth will look like when the treatment is complete.
Our orthodontist will explain the progression of steps. Each step will correspond to a new set of aligners. These aligners will gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. Our orthodontist will explain each step, so you can track your progress.
Duration of Treatment
How consistently you wear your aligner can also affect the timeline. If you want to achieve the best results, wear your aligner for the recommended time of 20 to 22 hours a day. If you miss hours or are unable to follow the plan strictly, you may end up extending the treatment plan.
Our office will schedule face-to-face check-ups with you every 6-8 weeks. During these visits, we can check the progress of your teeth and you can pick up your next batch of aligners.
Overcoming Common Concerns
Time Commitment
One common concern with Invisalign is the daily time commitment of 20-22 hours. Although it may sound like a lot, once you get used to wearing the aligner, you’ll forget you have it on. You can even integrate the aligner into your busy lifestyle by following these tips.
Follow a Routine: Remove your aligner only to brush your teeth and eat meals. If you can follow this simple routine, you can easily achieve the required amount of daily hours needed.
Cleaning Routine: Rinse your aligner every time you remove it to brush your teeth, and clean it thoroughly at least once a day. You can clean it thoroughly when you floss and brush your teeth at night or in the morning. Whichever time you choose, make sure to stick to this routine.
Carry the Aligner Case With You: When eating at a restaurant or at home, put your aligner in their protective case. After your meals, pop it back on. Having a specific place to store your aligner will ensure you don’t lose it.
Set an Alarm: If you have to remove your aligner for a sports activity, special meeting, or a photo, set an alarm to remind you to put it back in.
Comfort and Adjustment
While Invisalign is generally considered more comfortable than metal braces, there can be some initial discomfort at first. The advantage is that Invisalign doesn’t have sharp edges that can scrape against your cheeks and gums.
However, most people will experience some discomfort as their teeth adjust to the snug fit of the aligners. This pressure will usually subside after about a week as your teeth get used to the aligners. To adjust faster, here are some things you could try:
Wear Your Aligner as Much as Possible: The more you wear your aligner, the faster your mouth will adjust. Try to avoid removing it, even if the pressure is uncomfortable in the beginning.
Use Orthodontic Wax: Ask your orthodontist for orthodontic wax. This can help soothe any sore spots. The wax also provides a barrier between the inside of your mouth and the aligner.
Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any soreness you feel.
Regular Check-Ins: We recommend patients check in every 6-8 weeks. This way we can address any extreme discomfort.
Cost and Financing
Invisalign treatments can range from $3,000 to $9,000, depending on your needs and the complexity of your case. There are financing options to help make Invisalign more affordable. These include:
Insurance: Depending on the type of dental insurance you have, your insurance could cover up to $3,000 of the Invisalign cost.
Health Savings Account (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): If you have an HSA or FSA account, you can use the funds to pay for Invisalign. HSAs and FSAs have a certain amount added to them each month, which means you can wait until you have saved a specific amount before getting the Invisalign treatment.
In-House Dental Savings Plan: At Ranieu Family Dental, we offer an in-house dental savings plan. The cost per year for an individual is $299. This gives you access to free preventative care services as well as $1,000 off a full Invisalign treatment.
Credit: Ranieu Family Dental also offers credit via CareCredit or LendingClub. If approved, these act as credit cards. You would charge the whole amount to the card and then pay monthly.
Take $1000 OFF for Your Invisalign Treatment with Our Vancouver Invisalign Dentist!
If you’re worried about financing your Invisalign treatment, take a look at our in-house dental plan. A single plan costs $299 a year. After that, you get free preventative care and $1,000 off for your Invisalign treatment.
Our in-house dental plan is ideal for patients who have dental needs but don’t have dental insurance. There are no deductibles, no annual maximum benefits, no waiting periods, no spending limits, and no exclusions for cosmetic care.
Your Trusted Invisalign Dentist in Vancouver, WA
At Ranieu Family Dental, we’re proud to offer a treatment plan that can improve your smile! We’ll schedule an initial consultation and walk you through the stages of treatment you’ll need. Once we take a digital scan and personalize your treatment plan, we’ll set you up with Invisalign aligners. After the treatment, you’ll have the smile you’ve always wanted as well as a host of other benefits, such as a better bite and a reduced risk of gum disease.
Invisalign is a great option for any adult who’s hoping to get a perfect smile. Schedule a consultation or reach out to Ranieu Family Dental with any questions you may have about our Invisalign treatment. You can contact us through our website, email us at ranieufamilydental@gmail.com, or call us directly at (360) 735-9422.
Additional Resources
1] https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/126/1/012188/pdf
2] https://www.invisalign.com/resources/treatable-cases/open-bite
3] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/crooked-teeth-misaligned-bites
4] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15066-temporomandibular-disorders-tmd-overview