When you want to get your teeth straightened there are two options: braces and Invisalign. Braces are the solution that most people think of first, but Invisalign is becoming more and more popular. With Invisalign dentistry, there are none of brackets or wires that come with braces; instead, there are clear, removable aligners that fit over your teeth, gradually straightening them. They are checked and replaced regularly to ensure that the wearer’s teeth are correctly aligned. Although they are a good option for many people, as with anything there are pros and cons. 

Pros

• Nearly invisible – Invisalign is clear, so when you are wearing it, many people won’t notice. This makes them more discrete. The only time people will really notice is when you take them out to eat. This means that you won’t feel self-conscious when you smile or talk.
• More Comfortable – As there are no wires or brackets in your mouth, there is no risk of catching your mouth or getting any cuts. There will be discomfort as your teeth adjust to them, but they won’t irritate your mouth because Invisalign is smooth with no sharp edges.
• Removable – Invisalign needs to be removed when you eat or clean your teeth, which means you can keep up a high standard of oral hygiene more easily. There is also no need to watch what you eat. With braces, food can get stuck or damage the wire, and it is a lot harder and more time consuming to clean your teeth thoroughly.
• Easy to maintain – There is not much you have to do to maintain your Invisalign aligners. Scrubbing them with a toothbrush at least every other day will keep them fresh and ensure that they don’t get stained.

Cons

• Inconvenient – Invisalign has to be removed when you eat, so it can be more inconvenient when you are eating. Before you put them back in your mouth, you also need to brush your teeth, so you have to ensure you have a toothbrush and toothpaste with you.
• The expense – Invisalign can sometimes be more expensive than braces, and often they aren’t covered by insurance. That means that you may have to pay for them out of your own pocket, which is something you have to consider.
• Worn for 22 hours a day – This may not both some people, but others may be bothered by the fact that they have to be worn most of the time. If you wear them for less time, they will not be as effective, so if you can’t commit to wearing them, Invisalign dentistry might not be for you.
• Discomfort – When you get a new Invisalign aligner tray, they can put pressure on your teeth to move your teeth into alignment. This pressure can be uncomfortable and painful until you get used to it.

If you would like to discuss in more detail whether Invisalign is right for you, you can contact your practice in Mesa, Arizona. You will be able to find out more about Invisalign and find out whether they are the best option for you.