Is Invisalign® Right for Me?

How to Tell If You’re a Suitable Invisalign® Candidate in NYC

Many of our patients at DentAlign NYC come with preconceived notions about traditional braces vs. invisible braces. Are you wondering whether or not you would make a good candidate for Invisalign^® treatment in our New York City dental office? As an Invisalign^® Diamond Plus provider, our orthodontist has helped hundreds of New Yorkers straighten their teeth with a smile makeover thanks to Invisalign^®. However, while we certainly find it to be an effective teeth straightening treatment, we understand that it may not necessarily be right for every patient’s needs. If you’re on the fence about Invisalign^® aligners, we welcome you to read on to help you determine your eligibility for this type of treatment.

Invisalign® Treatments Have Come a Long Way Since 2000

First introduced in 2000, Invisalign^® treatments have come a long way in the past two decades. Many patients prefer Invisalign® over traditional braces because its technology gently aligns their teeth into a straighter position gradually while being practically invisible. Invisalign^® teeth aligners are customized to fit your mouth and to correct whatever orthodontic issue you may have. Aligners are worn 22 hours a day and are only removed when the patient is eating or drinking anything other than water. However, today’s 3D technology ensures a more comfortable fit than the earliest aligners, making it easier to wear them while maintaining an active lifestyle.

Problems Invisalign® Can Fix

If you struggle with crooked teeth or an improper bite, you are not alone. In fact, you and the millions of other Americans who deal with these issues could be prime candidates for Invisalign^®. Unfortunately, if left untreated, these issues can do more than contribute to the aesthetics of your smile. When left unaddressed, dental health complications can occur. Don’t wait to address your tooth misalignment until you begin to experience symptoms of discomfort or difficulty chewing. You could be a candidate for Invisalign^® if you suffer from gaps, crowding of teeth, or improper bite. Those who suffer from overbite, underbite, or crossbite are likely good candidates for Invisalign^®.

INVISALIGN® FOR GAPS

Whether you have embraced your gapped teeth, or your gap still makes you a little self-conscious, gaps affect more than the aesthetics of your smile. When gaps separate your teeth, they are more vulnerable to cavities and decay. Gaps also leave your gums exposed and susceptible to infection. These issues are an easy fix for Invisalign^®. The discrete plastic trays can bring teeth closer together and close even considerable gaps.

INVISALIGN® FOR IMPROPER BITE

If you suffer from overbite, underbite, or crossbite, Invisalign^® could be the solution for you. You shouldn’t have to settle for jaw pain. Leaving an improper bite untreated can lead to further, and even irreversible, jaw complications, including Temporomandibular joint disorder. Don’t let your misalignment progress to the point of no return. Let Invisalign^® fix your improper bite.

INVISALIGN® FOR CROWDING

Crowded teeth are among the most common issues plaguing individuals’ dental health. Crowding can be caused by genetics or occur due to the size of a person’s mouth. The smaller the mouth, the more likely it is the teeth will crowd. The development of our teeth is inherited, just like our hair and eye color. There is little you can do to prevent inheriting the crowded or crooked teeth gene. With Invisalign^®, you can fix the problem before it causes damage to your dental health or prevents you from practicing proper oral hygiene. Crowding can make it difficult to floss and brush each tooth. The inability to properly care for your teeth increases your risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Take action today. Don’t settle for crowded teeth. Choose Dr. Kenn Kakosian for straighter, healthier teeth, and a beautiful smile.

CAVITIES

You will need to have all cavities treated before beginning the Invisalign® process. It is imperative that the plastic trays help adjust healthy teeth, so they do not further any current decay or damage.

BABY TEETH

Patients are too young for the procedure when they still have some of their baby teeth and even after the adult teeth have grown in. Patients will likely not be approved for Invisalign® until they are well into their teens. Teeth continue to grow throughout adolescence. We must only prescribe Invisalign® treatment for those whose teeth have grown in fully.

LACK OF DISCIPLINE

With Invisalign® treatment, you have to commit to keeping your aligners in for at least 22 hours a day. If you don’t trust yourself to remember your Invisalign® tray or you’re afraid you won’t have the willpower to keep it in between meals or while you sleep, this is not the solution for you.

EXTENSIVE BRIDGEWORK OR DENTAL IMPLANTS

Certain dental procedures can disqualify patients from the benefits of Invisalign®. If you have had extensive bridgework done or you have dental implants, this is not the solution for you.

CERTAIN DISORDERS

If you suffer from periodontal disease, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, or you need to rotate your canines or premolars or reposition your jaw, Invisalign® might not be the answer for straightening your smile. It is important to consult with Dr. Kenn Kakosian to discuss your specific issues before discounting yourself from Invisalign® candidacy.