Regular Braces

An orthodontist’s top priority is to help his patients achieve a perfectly aligned smile. Many patients are interested in clear aligners because of their discreet appearance and successful outcomes! However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for Invisalign®. When choosing an Invisalign orthodontist, be sure to select one that offers other orthodontic treatments as well.

While your preference is important, if you aren’t a good candidate for Invisalign, your orthodontist will recommend regular braces. No one wants to see you waste time and money on a treatment that will leave you with anything less than your desired results.

In this blog, we’ll discuss who is a candidate for Invisalign® and the other orthodontic options available to those who aren’t eligible.

Suitable Candidates for Invisalign

The good news is that Invisalign aligners can treat most orthodontic problems. These include minor to moderate cases of:

• Crooked teeth
• Protruding teeth
• Gaps
• Overcrowding
• Underbite
• Overbite
• Crossbite

Invisalign primarily corrects the position and placement of teeth, not the structure and positioning of the jaw. Due to this, severe cases of misalignment typically require traditional braces. However, orthodontic technology is continually improving so we predict Invisalign will be able to do more in the future.

Meeting with an Invisalign orthodontist in person is the only true way to know if you are a good candidate for clear aligners. Schedule your appointment today!

Other Considerations

Besides the current state of your smile, your orthodontist will also discuss other issues that may disqualify you from Invisalign treatment. Invisalign enables patients to remove their aligners while eating or speaking publicly. While this is one of the greatest advantages, it can also be the greatest downfall.

With more freedom comes more responsibility. Therefore, patients must wear their aligners appropriately and keep up with them.

To achieve desired results, patients must wear the aligners for at least 20 hours a day. Not wearing the aligners enough can lengthen the treatment time and make it more expensive.

Patients who are too young to take responsibility for their aligners may be steered more towards traditional braces to avoid having to replace the aligners often.

It’s important to ensure that Invisalign is the best option for you before treatment begins. There is no wrong choice between clear aligners and traditional braces for those who qualify.

Not a candidate? Not a big deal!

If the words “traditional braces” make you think of giant silver brackets and wires, think again! Traditional braces are much more subtle than they used to be—and just as effective. Ask your orthodontist for braces with clear-colored ceramic brackets and customizable archwire. Some orthodontists call these clear braces, but there is no other difference between the two treatments.

Clear braces are particularly popular for adult patients for the same reasons that clear aligners are. They are both discreet, effective treatments, but clear braces often work faster than Invisalign. So if you’re looking for a quick treatment time, clear braces may be your best choice.

Discuss Your Options

When you meet with your orthodontist, he should discuss the pros and cons of each orthodontic option. Be sure to choose a practice, like Markham Orthodontics, that offers Invisalign AND traditional braces. This way, you know he is giving you the best advice and not just trying to keep you patient.

Our Sacramento orthodontists are happy to help you make the best choice for your smile and lifestyle. Call our Invisalign orthodontist today at (916) 924-8970 to schedule an initial consultation.