If you have been considering Invisalign, you may have turned to the internet to get a better idea of what the experience is like. However, it can be difficult to tell between rumors and the truth when you’re sifting through information online. Of course, you can contact your orthodontist for a comprehensive explanation of how Invisalign works and whether it’s the right choice for you, but it helps to have an idea before going into the appointment. That’s why we’ve broken down 10 of the most common Invisalign myths and the facts behind them.
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- All clear aligners are the same. Since Invisalign’s inception twenty years ago, the company has invested in SmartTrack technology to provide the most precise and individualized aligners fit to their patients. Compared to other aligner brands, Invisalign offers more accurate tooth movement and longevity, with clinical studies demonstrating their efficacy.
- Invisalign only treats simple dental issues. Invisalign can actually treat simple, moderate, and complex malocclusions. Special elastics can also be added to correct severe crowding, gaps, or the bite.
- Traditional braces require more attention to hygiene than Invisalign. Since you can remove your aligners to eat, it’s true the physical retainers require less thorough cleaning than traditional braces. However, it’s still important to take proper care of your teeth to avoid plaque buildup and tooth decay, both of which can damage and stain your aligners.
- You don’t need to wear your aligners 22 hours a day. To achieve the desired results, it’s important to wear Invisalign as instructed. You can remove your aligners to eat, drink, and clean your teeth, but you should be wearing them for the majority of the day otherwise.
- You can get Invisalign from any dentist. To get proper Invisalign treatment, we recommend seeking out a dentist or orthodontist that has specific training and experience in Invisalign.
- Invisalign is not suitable for children. Depending on their needs, children and teens can benefit from Invisalign. There are aligners designed to accommodate baby teeth, missing teeth, and erupting teeth as your child grows into their adult teeth.
- Invisalign takes less time than traditional braces. Treatment time is dependent on the complexity of your case and if you wear your aligners as instructed. Some patients may complete their treatment in a shorter time with Invisalign, while others may need to go through a longer process.
- Invisalign is painful. When you first put your trays in, they can be a bit uncomfortable as your mouth adjusts to a foreign object. Some patients may experience a bit of initial pain at the start of a new set of aligners but that should subside after a few days.
- Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces. Invisalign is comparable in price to traditional braces, but this can be affected by your orthodontic needs, dental insurance coverage, and location.
- You can’t eat certain foods with Invisalign. Since Invisalign trays are removable, you can continue to eat as you normally would! Remember to take your aligners out before eating to prevent damage or staining, and then go about enjoying your favorite foods as usual.
Meet our expert
Invisalign orthodontist, Dr. Mario Paz was selected to help develop and refine the Invisalign® brand. Dr. Paz is a Diamond+ Invisalign® Provider and has been at the forefront in the field of orthodontics for over 25 years. As a constant innovator in Los Angeles County, he is involved with the development and refinement of various types of invisible braces.
Dr. Paz practices exclusively in Marina del Rey offering a variety of treatments for children, teens and adults.