Phoenix, AZ Dentist Compares Effectiveness of Invisalign to Braces

Countless people want straighter teeth. Many love the concept of transparent aligners, but are concerned whether the method is effective. Dr. Justin Frost of Biltmore Dental Center in Phoenix, AZ shares this insight about Invisalign and braces.

How Teeth Move

Invisalign does not work better than braces, or vice versa. They are simply different techniques. Either can be appropriate for certain orthodontic issues, or suit the patient’s lifestyle better.

Conventional braces have bands and brackets cemented to teeth. Wires are connected to the brackets with tiny elastic bands to apply pressure, guiding each tooth toward its desired position. The push and pull created by braces stimulates osteoblasts and osteoclasts, cells which remove and add bone. This gradual bone remodeling process, allows teeth to move, settle into their new placement, and develop ongoing support.

Invisalign uses the same basic principles to move teeth. However, treatment is a bit gentler for these reasons:

  • Rather than applying tension at one precise point on the tooth, the aligner spreads that force over the entire crown.
  • The aligner sits passively on teeth that do not require adjustment.
  • Because aligners are not cemented to teeth, enamel is not damaged.
  • Aligners are removable, allowing healthy diet and excellent oral hygiene. That reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

You can learn more at the “Dental Invisalign” tab of www.BiltmoreDentalCenter.com.

Does Invisalign Really Work?

Let’s consider some statistics:

  • Invisalign is sold globally, in more than 45 countries.
  • It has been available in the United States since 1999.
  • More than 2.5 million patients have received treatment.
  • Invisalign’s patient satisfaction rate is over 96 percent.
  • Celebrities including Justin Bieber, Khloe Kardashian, Oprah Winfrey, and Tom Cruise, have straightened their teeth with Invisalign.

Dr. Justin Frost carefully considers the individual’s oral health, dental condition, straightening goals, personality, and lifestyle before recommending a treatment plan. That may be Invisalign, Six Month Smiles cosmetic braces, or referral to an orthodontic specialist for complex cases. Be assured that your wellbeing is top priority in this determination.

Good Candidates for Invisalign

The best Invisalign patient will conscientiously stick to the recommended schedule. Aligners must remain in place for 20 to 22 hours a day, for the system to work efficiently. Typically, adults are better candidates, but some teens will commit to compliance. Braces are usually better for young patients, who might remove or lose aligners.

Initially, Invisalign was considered appropriate only for minor to moderate cosmetic misalignment. However, the system has evolved dramatically. Today’s Invisalign can be a terrific solution for:

  • Crowding and overlaps.
  • Spacing issues, gaps, and asymmetry.
  • Overbite, commonly known as “buck teeth.”
  • Underbite, when the lower arch extends over upper teeth.
  • Deep bite, causing the lower arch to be barely visible when the mouth is closed.
  • Open bite, no overlap between upper and lower front teeth.

Crossbite, other severe bite problems, bone malformation, and traumatic jaw damage may warrant braces.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Justin Frost to find out if Invisalign or braces are right for you. Call his Phoenix, AZ office at 602-704-0659.