Does Invisalign Really Work Without Causing Tooth Problems

Does Invisalign really work? This treatment is often marketed as a more convenient alternative to braces, but some patients are concerned about its effectiveness. Invisalign® may sound too good to be true — patients do not have to worry about avoiding certain foods that may become stuck in traditional braces.

Does Invisalign really work?

Like traditional braces, Invisalign® is designed to correct crooked teeth, crowded teeth and gaps. Instead of periodically having wires tightened like with braces, Invisalign® patients are given a series of near-invisible aligners. Each successive set of aligners is designed to push the patient's teeth closer to their ideal alignment.

What factors cause Invisalign® not to work?

One of the advantages of Invisalign® is that it can be taken out when a patient needs to eat or brush their teeth. However, this advantage can quickly become a disadvantage when patients are non-compliant. Most dental professionals advise their patients that they need to wear their Invisalign® trays as close to 23 hours per day as possible.

Because it is easy to remove Invisalign® at any point, some patients go for several hours without wearing their aligners. Even in this relatively short period, it is possible to lose progress. Each time a patient goes without aligners, teeth can shift back to where they were before treatment. When done frequently, this can result in Invisalign® treatment not working.

Does Invisalign really work for all dental issues?

Invisalign® can be used to correct almost every issue that traditional braces can. However, for certain severe issues, a patient's dentist may recommend alternative treatment. For patients with the following issues, Invisalign® may not be effective:

  • Extremely crowded teeth
  • Teeth rotated more than 20 degrees
  • Very large gaps between teeth
  • Existing dental bridges or similar types of dental work
  • Unusually shaped teeth
  • Before prescribing Invisalign® or a similar orthodontic treatment, a dental professional will thoroughly examine a patient's teeth to see whether Invisalign® is the right option.

    Can Invisalign® cause tooth problems?

    When used correctly, Invisalign® will not cause tooth problems. Patients do need to be very careful to brush their teeth before putting aligners back in. Because aligners fit very tightly to the teeth, they stop saliva from reaching the teeth's surface. Without saliva, food particles cannot be efficiently broken down, and plaque, cavities and other dental issues may occur.

    In order to avoid potential problems, Invisalign® patients should make sure they brush and floss their teeth after eating and before placing the aligners. The prescribing provider will usually go over optimal dental hygiene with a patient before fitting them with their first set of aligners.

    Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Services in La Puente, CA.

    Conclusion

    Patients who have been wondering, "Does Invisalign® really work?" may be relieved to know that with careful compliance and good dental hygiene, the answer is almost always yes. For patients interested in Invisalign® for achieving a better smile, it is a good idea to reach out to a dental professional to make an appointment.

    Request an appointment or call MyDentist La Puente at 626-345-6117 for an appointment in our La Puente office.

    Related Posts

    Dental Crowns: Frequently Asked Questions

    Dental crowns are one of the most well-known dental restorations. Most people have some idea of what dental crowns are. However, if you have never had one and this is your first time getting one, you may have many questions about what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions about dental crowns that will…

    What You Need To Know About Aesthetic Dentistry

    Aesthetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile while maintaining or enhancing your oral health. From teeth whitening to veneers, this dentistry combines artistry with modern dental procedures to create stunning results. Understanding the procedures and benefits of aesthetic dentistry can help you determine how to create the smile of your dreams.Aesthetic dentistry…

    Dental Hygiene And Dental Crowns

    Dental crowns restore teeth compromised by damage or decay. They can repair teeth's appearance and function and last a long time. Though dental crowns can be highly beneficial for those who take good care of their teeth, improper dental care can damage these restorations, impact their effectiveness, and lead to decay and other oral health…

MyDentist La Puente

Share
Published by
MyDentist La Puente

Recent Posts

Dental Crowns: Frequently Asked Questions

Dental crowns are one of the most well-known dental restorations. Most people have some idea…

3 days ago

What You Need to Know About Aesthetic Dentistry

Understanding the procedures and benefits of aesthetic dentistry can help you determine how to create…

1 week ago

Dental Hygiene and Dental Crowns

Dental crowns restore teeth compromised by damage or decay. They can repair teeth's appearance and…

2 weeks ago

Most Common Uses for Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are among the most highly versatile restorations, serving both restorative and cosmetic purposes.…

3 weeks ago

A Guide To Caring for Dental Crowns

Whether you have a cracked, chipped, or decayed tooth, a dental crown can restore it…

4 weeks ago

Common Treatments Used in Adult Orthodontics

Adult orthodontics offers a variety of effective treatments tailored to meet the unique needs of…

4 weeks ago