If you are a teen or adult who has problems with your teeth, your self-esteem can really take a hit. Traditional metal braces are often recommended to straighten the teeth and correct other orthodontic issues, but you may feel too self-conscious to have a mouth full of metal for two to three years. This is where a great alternative called Invisalign comes in.
What is the difference?
Invisalign is a clear set of plastic aligners that are custom-made for your mouth. They can help teens to enjoy a better self-esteem because they are clear, making them virtually invisible. Most people won’t even know you’re wearing them. You can go to school, hang out with your friends, go to the mall and work at your part-time or after school job without worry of embarrassment when you talk or smile.
Unlike traditional braces, the Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, brushing your teeth and flossing. That means that you can eat whatever you want and not have to dread getting food particles stuck, which always happens with braces. It also means that you can avoid additional dental problems like gum disease because you can more easily remove the food particles.
Things to Consider
As a teen, you have certain responsibilities as you are getting older. Having Invisalign gives you an added responsibility. You are completely in charge of your Invisalign aligners in terms of cleaning them and using them to straighten your teeth for 23 hours per day. They are there for you, to straighten your teeth and give you a more beautiful smile. As a result, you will want to take extra care of your Invisalign and make sure they actually work the way they are supposed to. It’s up to you whether the aligners straighten your teeth because you have to remember to use them and follow the instructions from your orthodontist.
Invisalign are also far more comfortable than regular braces. There is no metal or wire, which can cause nicks and cuts in your mouth and cause you physical pain on top of self-consciousness. Invisalign helps teens because they are smooth and easy to wear without pain or embarrassment.
If you are a teen or adult who needs your teeth straightened, ask your dentist or orthodontist about Invisalign during your next appointment.