If you wore braces in the past, you probably felt like all that effort paid off with an aligned smile. Now that some time has passed, have you noticed that your teeth aren’t quite as straight as they used to be? This shifting happens for a number of reasons, which may have you considering orthodontics once again. For a second round, many people turn to Invisalign. Keep reading to see how it could work for you.
Is Invisalign After Braces Possible?
Clear aligners tend to work best for mild to moderate misalignment. You will wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day, allowing gentle, consistent pressure to guide your grin back into place. Since your smile likely hasn’t shifted too drastically since your braces came off, Invisalign could be a strong fit for your situation.
Before moving forward, your dentist will want to confirm you’re a good candidate. This typically involves an oral exam and X-rays to map out the movements needed. They’ll also take into account any existing oral health concerns, along with lifestyle habits like teeth grinding, clenching, or tobacco use.
What Should I Expect from an Invisalign Treatment?
You might be wondering how the timeline with orthodontic trays compares to your original braces treatment. The good news is they typically take 12 to 18 months on average to complete. Though your case could be shorter or longer depending on what needs to be corrected.
Many patients prefer Invisalign for its convenience, comfort, and subtle appearance. Since the aligners are made from a thin, smooth plastic, there’s no bulky metal to deal with. They’re also removable, so you can take them out at mealtimes without worrying about damaging any wires or brackets.
How Do I Get Started with Invisalign?
If you’ve noticed your teeth drifting out of place, it’s worth addressing sooner rather than later. Starting the process again can help you regain your aligned smile and may even help you avoid more extensive dental work down the line.
A consultation with your dentist is the best way to find out if Invisalign is right for you. Most patients who’ve had braces before qualify for this treatment, so it’s worth exploring what it would take to get your grin back on track.
About the Author
Dr. Priya Chougule earned her dental degree from the University of Connecticut. She has over 15 years of experience and is proud to be certified in Invisalign. Dr. Chougule will stay at your side throughout your time with your trays to ensure you avoid any delays to your results. If you are interested in this form of orthodontics, schedule an appointment or call her office at 803-548-3342.