Are You a Candidate for Invisalign?

Are You a Candidate for Invisalign?

If you wish to make your smile more attractive, talk to your dentist about Invisalign. Invisalign is a teeth-straightening treatment option that involves the use of clear aligners. It is a discreet and convenient way to straighten teeth using customized trays that move teeth to the desired position. The trays are worn for one or two weeks before switching to a new tray.

Straightforward Alignment

Invisalign is an effective orthodontic option that can help correct most misaligned or crooked teeth. You can benefit from Invisalign if you have gaps, crowded teeth, an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite. Invisalign is not ideal for people with complex dental alignment issues. Some patients may require dental surgery or traditional metal braces to correct their dental problems instead of Invisalign.

You Are Committed and Responsible

To be a candidate for Invisalign, you need to be responsible. There is a good reason why Invisalign is recommended for individuals over a certain age. For the treatment to work effectively, you must follow the instructions exactly as prescribed. The trays are removable, so you can take them out anytime when you wish. To get the desired results, you must put on the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily. Failing to follow this rule will lengthen the treatment and postpone your perfect smile.

You Have All Your Adult Teeth

As with most dental cosmetic procedures, Invisalign treatment is recommended for adults. It is ideal to have all your adult teeth before aligning them. It is difficult to predict how a child’s adult teeth will emerge. As an adult, your jawbone is also fully developed, making you a good candidate for aligners. Teeth erupting after the alignment will affect the treatment results. If you have a lingering baby tooth, you may require additional dental work before beginning the alignment process.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

To be a candidate for Invisalign, you must practice good oral hygiene. For best results, you must have a healthy mouth. The dentist will examine your oral health to determine if you are ready for orthodontic treatment. Daily brushing and flossing are vital when wearing aligners. You also need to take good care of the trays. Cleaning or rinsing the trays every time you remove them or before wearing them will help prevent unwanted cavities or infections.

You Are a Nonsmoker

A good candidate for Invisalign is someone who does not smoke. The trays remain in the mouth most of the day, so you must not smoke or use tobacco products. Smoking can damage the trays, causing them to become dirty or stained. It will affect the overall appearance of your smile. If you remove the aligners every time you need to smoke, it will end up interfering with the results. Invisalign treatment requires a level of commitment not present with regular, non-removable braces. You have a huge responsibility to ensure that the treatment works effectively. If you had braces in childhood and have some minor issues that need correction, Invisalign treatment is ideal for you.


For more information about Invisalign, visit Jonny Fisher DDS at our Pullman, Washington office. Call (509) 383-8300 to schedule an appointment today.