Am I a Candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is a treatment that aligns teeth. Transparent and plastic in form, it covers your teeth and gently pulls them into the proper position. This transparency makes it less noticeable when you take it on and off.

There are no wires or metal brackets that will make you shy or keep you from smiling. It is comfortable, looks beautiful, and aligns your teeth in half the time it takes metal braces. Invisalign is an effective and discreet treatment for aligning your teeth.

Dental Issues It Corrects

Invisalign works for most dental issues. However, it does not apply to severe issues. These include large overbites or where there is a need for advanced techniques to shift the jawbone. The issues that Invisalign deals effectively with include:

• Mild overbites and underbites.
• Gaps in teeth.
• Protruding teeth.
• Mildly crooked teeth.
• Overcrowded teeth.

How to Know If You Are a Good Candidate

To know if you are a good candidate for Invisalign, you need to answer some questions. These questions will act as a guideline.

How Old Are You?

Invisalign may not be the best form of orthodontic treatment for children as their teeth are still growing. However, they are perfect for older teenagers and adults. Older teenagers would enjoy them as they are transparent and beautiful. Therefore, they do not get in the way of their social life.

Adults do not necessarily prefer Invisalign for the same reasons as teenagers. However, a top reason they would prefer them to metal braces is not to look like a teenager.

How Severe Is Your Problem?

This is the top determinant of whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign. Invisalign does not resolve severe issues, only mild ones. If your case is severe, you may need to settle for another treatment option like the traditional metal braces.

How Is Your Commitment to Treatment?

Invisalign requires that the braces remain in your mouth for at least 22 hours a day. However, you can remove them to eat, drink, or brush your teeth. You need the commitment to remember returning the braces after doing what you need to do. Otherwise, your teeth will shift back into their previous position before treatment. If there is no commitment, Invisalign will not work.

How Is Your Budget?

Before settling for Invisalign, get to know if you can afford them. If you have a dental insurance plan, find out if they will cover the treatment. Some plans will cover the whole cost while others will only cover part of it.

If you do not have insurance coverage, confirm if your dentist offers a payment plan. Some of them do. However, make sure you get to know it before the treatment so you can agree on how it will be.

Invisalign is a good option if you do not have complex issues, but take your time to consider all the pros and cons before making your decision.

For more information on Invisalign, visit Castro Valley Dentistry at our office in Castro Valley, California. You can call (510) 674-0900 today to schedule an appointment.