Are you considering Invisalign? This is a great choice if you’re looking for a more subtle way to achieve the perfect smile. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign offers clear aligners that are barely visible and can make the process of straightening your teeth much less obvious. But before taking this step forward, it’s important to know if Invisalign is right for you and what potential roadblocks may come up during the treatment process. Let’s take a closer look at how to determine whether Invisalign is the best option for achieving your desired results in an efficient manner.

1. Talk to Your Dentist – One of the best ways to determine if Invisalign is right for you is to consult with your dentist. They will be able to evaluate your dental health and let you know if Invisalign can help correct any issues you may be having. 
2. Consider Your Lifestyle – Invisalign works best for people with an active lifestyle, as the removable aligners make it easy to maintain your regular routine without worrying about food getting stuck in brackets or wires. If you prefer a more sedentary lifestyle, such as working from home, traditional braces may be a better option because they provide a tighter fit that can’t be removed easily. 
3. Determine Your Commitment Level – Invisalign requires a high level of commitment due to the need to wear the aligners for at least 20 hours each day and switch out trays every two weeks. If you’re not willing to commit yourself to wear the aligners as prescribed, traditional braces may be a better fit. You’ll also need to attend regular checkups with your doctor, typically every 4-6 weeks, so they can monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. 
4. Know Your Budget – Invisalign is not cheap and can cost anywhere from several hundred to thousands of dollars depending on the severity of your case. Before committing to Invisalign, consider if you’re able to afford the treatment and any additional costs that may arise from complications or prolonged treatment time. 

Invisalign treatment is typically complete within 12-18 months, but this timeline may vary depending on the complexity of your case and how closely you follow instructions from your doctor. During this time you should notice a gradual transformation in the alignment of your teeth until they reach their desired position. Once that happens, you’re finished with Invisalign! Your doctor will provide you with retainers to wear overnight or part-time in order to help keep your teeth in place while they settle into their new positions. 

Overall, each case is unique and your orthodontist will be able to provide you with information specific to your individual condition. With a comprehensive understanding of how Invisalign works and what kind of lifestyle modifications may need to be made during the process, you can make an informed decision on whether this option is right for you.  If you’re considering Invisalign, the best way to find out if it’s right for you is to contact us today. At New Smiles Dental, we want you to be confident that your smile achieves your goals for comfort, function, and appearance.