Traditional metal braces are a classic orthodontic appliance with an excellent track record of aligning teeth and jaws, producing straighter smiles and improving oral health. Modern versions are more comfortable, customizable, and lightweight than ever before, yet many patients are still hesitant about using them to achieve a more fully functioning smile. Improvements aside, braces are a fixed orthodontic appliance, and as such, they do have some limitations and restrictions. For teens and adults who want an aligned, healthier smile, but aren’t 100% sold on using traditional braces to achieve it, Kottemann Orthodontics have another option that could be a perfect fit – the Invisalign clear aligner system!
What is Invisalign?
The Invisalign system is composed of a series of removable plastic aligners that are worn over the teeth. Every set of trays are worn for about a week, when it will be replaced with the next one in the series, gently and gradually moving the teeth until they reach their final desired positions. The trays are custom designed to fit the unique dental needs of every patient we treat, and are changed so frequently so that they can keep up with the shifting of the teeth as they begin to straighten. Invisalign gives patients a beautifully aligned and fully functional smile, as well as an optimized bite pattern. Teeth will be healthier, more attractive, and more effective. Let’s look at some of the other reasons our patients love the Invisalign system!
1. Invisalign is able to treat smiles as successfully as traditional braces
When it comes to treating many of the most common orthodontic issues, Invisalign can be just as successful as traditional braces. The system is at its most efficient when treating mild to moderate cases of underbite, overbite, overcrowding, and gaps between the teeth, but it depends on patient compliance to achieve successful results. If aligners are not worn the recommended 20-22 hours daily, they won’t have the chance to work the way they are meant to. Patient compliance is key!
2. Invisalign costs about the same as traditional braces
Cost is a common concern we hear about from patients and parents. There’s a worry that an alternative to braces, like Invisalign, will cost much more. There are many factors that determine how much Invisalign treatment will be, including the extent of the issues needing correction, how long the treatment plan is, and specific treatment details unique to each case. But on average, Invisalign will cost just about the same as traditional braces!
Many insurance plans that offer orthodontic coverage will also cover Invisalign. Our staff is experienced in insurance claims and paperwork, and are happy to help patients get the most they can from their insurance plan, from contacting the insurance company to verify benefits to calculating coverage as part of an overall treatment plan. For out of pocket costs or treatment that isn’t covered, we accept most major credit cards and have a variety of affordable payment plans available.
3. Invisalign offers flexibility
Any orthodontic treatment will take some getting used to, but with traditional braces, the accompanying food restrictions can be a steep learning curve. Having a fixed appliance with multiple components, like the brackets, wires, and bands of traditional braces, means avoiding anything that could damage them. Anything crunchy, sticky, or chewy has to go on the back burner until treatment is complete.
Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, are meant to removed at mealtimes. Patients are able to eat just about anything they normally would, as long as a good oral hygiene routine is maintained. This is another area where Invisalign excels, making it a cinch to keep the teeth clean thanks to its removability. Aligners are removed before brushing and flossing so there are no nooks and crannies to navigate, and much less chance of bacteria and plaque being trapped against the teeth. It’s a simple matter of brush, floss, and go!
4. Invisalign has the invisibility factor
Crooked teeth and other dental issues that affect the smile a patient shows the world can do a number on self-confidence. While traditional braces can be a wonderful long-term solution for these types of malocclusions, many patients worry that they may make them stand out more during the treatment process, increasing any self-consciousness they’re already feeling. One of the biggest selling points for Invisalign aligners is that they are virtually invisible! It’s entirely possible to get through treatment without anyone even noticing them, making them the perfect choice for teens and adults who are concerned about how traditional braces will affect their appearance and their lifestyle.
5. Invisalign means less time in the chair
Life is hectic these days, and we’re left trying to pack more into our schedules than ever before. It can be overwhelming trying to fit in work, school, sports, and other extracurriculars, let alone adjustment appointments at the orthodontist’s office. When compared to traditional braces, Invisalign patients will tend to require less frequent visits overall, since there aren’t any adjustments to make, and no broken wires and brackets that will need attending to. Most visits are in and out, with a quick progress check once every six weeks.
For a clear winner, try Invisalign with Kottemann Orthodontics
Are you interested in learning more about how to achieve a beautifully aligned smile without traditional braces treatment? If so, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our five office locations. Our doctors have been providing Invisalign treatments to families in our community for years, and have a long list of satisfied patients with beautiful smiles to show for it! Our team works hard to giving every patient individualized care and comfortable, stress-free orthodontic experience.
At Kottemann Orthodontics, our goal is to give you a healthy, beautifully aligned smile. We have a skilled staff who will work with you every step of the way to make sure that your orthodontic care is as rewarding as possible. Invisalign and Kottemann are the clear winners when it comes to creating a smile you love that will last a lifetime!