Anyone that knows me well knows I hate my teeth! They aren’t horrible, but it is something that really bothers me. I had braces for 3 years, starting when I was 13. A dental surgery, some elastics and a metal retainer topped off my orthodontic experience. There was a lot of construction done on this mouth!
Over the past 10 years things have shifted AGAIN and I have been told by dental professionals I need to get braces to put things back where they belong. I am now in my 30’s and metal braces are just not something I think I want again.
My teenage stepdaughter is getting metal braces soon and seems to be looking forward to it. She thinks it is “cool”, but I am willing to bet the coolness factor will wear off quickly. The constant cleaning to ensure you don’t have lunch stuck in your teeth and the pain after tightening is not a lot fun.
At my most recent trip to the dentist I discussed my hatred for my moving teeth and putting chunky, old-fashioned metal braces on my face again. He recommended I look into Invisalign, handed me a pamphlet and said I would be a PERFECT candidate.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a set of clear aligners that are virtually invisible (right up my alley) and made of a thermoplastic material, they look a bit like teeth-whitening trays. These aligners treat many of the same conditions that metal braces do: under bites, crossbones and severe misalignment. Like metal braces, they gradually move your teeth by applying pressure over a period of time. Every couple of weeks you will use a new set of aligners that put pressure on a different set of teeth.
The aligners are to be worn 20 – 22 hrs a day, but you do have the flexibility to remove them to eat and drink – no more spinach hanging from your braces!
Invisalign has products available for both adults and teens. If you or your child has been told you need braces and you/they are NOT a candidate for Invisalign I suggest you explore your options before committing to one form of treatment. Taking the time to research your options can not only possibly save you money, but I always think it is important to get a second opinion on anything regarding your health. To find a Preferred Provider in your area simple visit the Invisalign site and drop in your postal/zip code to find your perfect match.
Invisalign Teen Benefits
Teens are also able to have a modern choice for straightening their teeth. Like the adult version, Invisalign Teen is a series of removable aligners that move teeth gradually over time.
Invisalign Teen treatment is great for busy parents because there are never any emergency appointments caused by broken wires or brackets and your child will spend less time in the chair for those uncomfortable tightenings.
There are many benefits to Invisalign Teen treatment for teens as well:
- It fits teens’ busy lives—the aligners are comfortable and durable, so it’s easy for teens to continue their favorite activities such as playing sports and musical instruments that can be challenging or uncomfortable with traditional metal braces.
- It’s clear—no metal braces so treatment is inconspicuous, making it easier for teens to “fit in” rather than call attention to their treatment.
- It’s removable—teens take the aligners out to brush and floss so they can maintain normal, healthy hygiene during treatment and they can eat what they want. AND Invisalign Teen gives patients up to 6 free replacement aligners – because they know kids lose things :)
- It’s more comfortable than traditional braces— Unlike braces, there are no wires or uncomfortable metal brackets poking or tearing their mouths or gums.
How much does it cost?
That was the first question I had for the dentist. In order to give you an accurate price they need to do a no-cost consultation. I haven’t went for mine yet. The dentist did tell me that Invisalign costs about the same as metal braces – but are invisible and suppose to be less painful. Both of these features appeal to me greatly as I had a lot of pain with my braces (eating mashed potatoes and jello for days on end) and being invisible is a huge BONUS.
If you are interested in seeing if you or your teen is a candidate you can take the Invisalign free self assessment test online and then make an appointment to discuss your options with your dental professional.
I am pretty sure Invisalign is the route I am going to take, we just need to work this into our budget since our insurance does not cover adult orthodontic work.
It is great to know that there are OPTIONS out there when it comes to straightening your or your teens teeth. And if your teenage daughter is hesitant to look at this option, just mention that Justin Bieber wears Invisalign and she may just reconsider...
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post and compensation was provided by SITS Girls and Invisalign/Gold PR. The opinions expressed in this post are mine and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of the post sponsors.
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