You spent months or even years in braces, and when you completed treatment, you got to enjoy the confidence of a straight, healthy smile. Yet, over time, you may have noticed your teeth shifting out of their ideal positions. This is a common concern among adults who have previously worn braces, and it is especially likely if you did not use your retainers enough. How can you get your smile back into its proper alignment? Invisalign may be able to help.
Who Qualifies for Invisalign After Braces?
If your teeth have moved since your orthodontic treatment, you might wonder whether Invisalign is an option for you. This method works well for mild to moderate cases of misalignment, which are typical for most adults who have previously worn braces. Dentists commonly recommend Invisalign for the following dental concerns:
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Certain bite issues, such as overbite or underbite
Of course, your dentist will consider more than just your dental alignment. Factors such as your oral health, lifestyle, and personal preferences will play a role in determining if Invisalign fits your needs. After a thorough evaluation, your dentist will provide a professional opinion on whether clear aligners are right for you.
What to Expect During Treatment
If you choose to move forward with Invisalign, your experience will differ from traditional braces in several ways:
- Invisalign aligners are clear and nearly invisible, while traditional braces feature noticeable metal brackets and wires. This means you can straighten your teeth with much more discretion while using Invisalign.
- The trays provided with Invisalign are smooth and custom-fitted, which reduces irritation to your cheeks and gums. In comparison, braces may cause discomfort due to metal components and the need for regular adjustments.
- You can remove Invisalign aligners when you are eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing, granting you greater flexibility in your daily routine. Braces are fixed to your teeth, so cleaning and eating require extra care to avoid complications.
- Invisalign allows you to eat any food you like after removing the aligners. With braces, you must avoid certain foods that could damage the brackets or wires.
- Maintaining proper oral hygiene is simpler with Invisalign, since you can brush and floss as usual. Braces, on the other hand, require special cleaning tools and techniques to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Dental appointments are typically less frequent with Invisalign, because you can change the aligners yourself at home. Braces might demand more in-office visits for adjustments throughout your treatment.
Getting Invisalign after braces offers you a modern, flexible solution to address unwanted shifts in dental alignment. Speak with your dentist to explore how clear aligners may help you regain a smile you love.
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group, our highly skilled team is pleased to offer both clear aligners and traditional braces. If your teeth have shifted out of place after previous orthodontic treatment, we would be pleased to consult with you and discuss your options. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact our Branford location at 203-439-6895.