Invisalign: Fact or Fiction

Have you been thinking about orthodontic treatment but aren’t sure about the attention that will draw to your smile? We have great news! We offer more options than traditional metal braces to help with misaligned smiles at Brodsky Orthodontics. Our doctors have the expertise to help treat your smile with a variety of options for all ages, including Invisalign clear aligners.

The growing amount of attention that Invisalign has gained over the years and with that came some misinformation.  How do you know if you should believe the hype about Invisalign? Dr. Joel Brodsky, Dr. Charles Brodsky, and Dr. Jeremy Vistica are here to help you learn the facts about Invisalign clear aligners! 

Fiction: It’s hard to maintain Invisalign aligners

When thinking about orthodontics, you might imagine food restrictions and trouble brushing your teeth becoming your new normal. While there are plenty of rules to follow with metal braces, that isn’t always the case with Invisalign. 

Fact: Invisalign is easy to maintain

Keeping your clear aligners in their best condition is easy. By using the special care kit, removing them and rinsing with an approved solution – you’re certain to keep your aligners in mint condition. You will also be able to continue your normal oral hygiene routine by easily brushing and flossing since there are no wires or brackets. Were you thinking about food restrictions? No worries, because you can drink and eat whatever you want when using Invisalign. 

Fiction: Invisalign trays are painful

Traditional braces have long had a reputation for being uncomfortable and irritating, and because of that, many people believe that Invisalign will be too. Metal braces use wires and brackets that are attached to the teeth and adjusted over time, which causes some discomfort. Treatment with Invisalign does not use this same approach.  

Fact: Invisalign trays are very comfortable

Invisalign trays are made from SmartTrack material that is flexible and customized to your smile. This means they are more comfortable since there are no wires or brackets. Your trays will need to be replaced every 1-2 weeks as directed by the doctors at Brodsky Orthodontics. When switching trays there will be some pressure as your teeth start to shift, but that will subside after a day or two.

Fiction: Invisalign is more expensive than braces

Over the years, traditional braces have seen many changes, making them accessible and more affordable. Since Invisalign is a newer technology, many people believe it must cost more. But, do we have some good news! 

Fact: Invisalign cost is the exact same as braces

Everyone’s treatment is different, so there is no set number regarding how much treatment will cost. Traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners usually cost the same. If you have dental insurance, orthodontic treatment may be covered. Our team in our Lakewood office will help verify this and work with you to create a treatment plan for your budget before we begin orthodontic treatment.

Fiction: Invisalign doesn’t work as well as braces

This is a myth worth busting! Many believe that since traditional braces are fixed to the teeth, they are more effective than Invisalign, which is removable. But, this couldn’t be further from the truth. 

Fact: Invisalign is just as effective as metal braces

Invisalign clear aligners have come a long way thanks to advancements in technology. Clear aligners were originally used for post-treatment retention, but they are just as effective at correcting orthodontic problems as braces. When used as directed by our doctors, you can achieve the same excellent results as you would with traditional braces.  In some cases, the results are actually superior to braces.

Fiction: Treatment takes longer with Invisalign

Many believe that metal braces will straighten teeth faster than Invisalign since braces use glue and wires that attach to the teeth. But, that is not the case.

Fact: Treatment time with Invisalign is usually less than metal braces

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to orthodontic treatment time. We see a wide variety of unique cases at our Lakewood office. Treatment with Invisalign is generally the same – or even less – than traditional braces. Typically treatment time with traditional braces is around two years or longer, while Invisalign treatment averages closer to 18 months. There are multiple factors that determine the amount of time you will spend wearing aligners such as compliance, age, and orthodontic issues.

Invisalign is the clear choice with Brodsky Orthodontics

Are you looking to improve your smile? Or maybe you’ve spent time looking for orthodontic treatment for your child or teen? Our team at Brodsky Orthodontics is here to help no matter the state of your smile. The only way to know for sure is a visit with the experts! 

Schedule a free initial consultation in our Lakewood office. Dr. Joel Brodsky, Dr. Charles Brodsky, or Dr. Jeffrey Brumbaugh can help determine if Invisalign is the right choice for your smile!