Debunking Lingering Myths About Invisalign®

Gone are the days when people with less-than-perfect smiles had no other solution to their orthodontic issues but traditional braces. Since the FDA gave Invisalign in Aurora, CO, its approval in 1998, this alternative to metal braces became both doctors’ and patients’ favorite teeth straightening device. Despite its easy approach, lingering myths surrounding this relatively new treatment option continue to hold some patients back. We’re here to help you separate fact from fiction so you can make an informed decision.

The Biggest Invisalign Myths – Debunked!

Invisalign is a treatment that straightens teeth without using metal wires and brackets. This orthodontic solution consists of a series of custom-made clear braces made from BPA-free plastic that cover teeth while gently pulling them into their correct positions over time. Since they’re clear, Invisalign aligners are less noticeable than conventional braces.

MYTH #1: “It’s less effective than metal braces.”

Thanks to its superior technology, Invisalign aligners’ all-around force across the teeth provides a better alternative to traditional metal braces. Moreover, orthodontists won’t be able to reverse engineer teeth with braces as efficiently as they could with Invisalign clear aligners.  

MYTH #2: “It takes longer to work than metal braces.”

In most cases, patients must wait around two years before achieving a beautifully straighter smile. On the other hand, Invisalign can deliver your prescribed smile in less than two years.

Moreover, the time it takes for Invisalign to work largely depends on several factors. These factors include your teeth’s condition, treatment complexity, and ability to follow your orthodontist’s instructions.  

However, it’s worth noting that Invisalign’s treatment duration is proportionally linked to wearing the clear aligners. The more you wear them, the faster your treatment will be over.  

MYTH #3: “You’ll talk funny while wearing the aligner trays.”

While most people don’t experience any issues speaking typically while wearing Invisalign aligners, others may communicate with a slight lisp for the first two to three days of treatment or when they pop their aligners back in after a long time. You can adapt pretty quickly if you practice talking with your aligners.

MYTH #4: “You can’t eat whatever you want.”

Invisalign wearers love that they have permission to eat whatever they want, whenever they want. Since this orthodontic treatment uses removable aligners instead of metal brackets and wires, it won’t restrict your diet.  

You can eat your favorite foods, such as pizza, popcorn, steak, and apples, without worrying about causing damage to the aligners or compromising your treatment’s progress.

MYTH #5: “You won’t have to minimize coffee consumption.”

Are you someone who requires a steady fix of caffeine throughout the day? If you’re looking to straighten your teeth with Invisalign, limiting your coffee consumption to a cup or two with breakfast each morning is best.  

Otherwise, the coffee will end up leaving unsightly stains on your aligners. Water is the only beverage you can drink that won’t discolor your aligners.

MYTH #6: “You must wear your aligners while eating.”

Since your teeth are strong, they can quickly demolish food while you’re chewing. Activating this force while wearing your clear aligners will crack, stain, or damage them in other ways. If you must eat something, indulge with your aligners taken out.

MYTH #7: “Only adults can straighten their teeth with Invisalign.”

Contrary to what some people mistakenly believe, Teenagers, young adults, and older adults can wear straighten their teeth with Invisalign. However, this treatment is ideal for patients responsible enough to follow the dentist’s instructions regarding the hours they should wear this removable appliance and their aligners’ proper storage and maintenance.

MYTH #8: “It costs a fortune.”

Due to its shorter treatment duration, Invisalign may have a high price tag. However, you’ll save more time and money with this treatment than you would with traditional braces because Invisalign treatment requires fewer dental visits.

MYTH #9: “Ordering clear aligners online produces the same results as working with an orthodontist.”

Since Invisalign is a precision product, it requires the knowledge and skills of a qualified orthodontist. For this reason, putting your teeth’s long-term health in the hands of a professional is your best option. Working with an expert means having someone to answer your questions, address your concerns, monitor your progress, handle necessary adjustments, and ensure you get the best results.  

MYTH #10: “When it comes to Invisalign, any dental professional is as good as another.”

Contrary to popular belief, dental professionals vary widely in knowledge, skills, and experience. While some have grown by leaps and bounds in their techniques, others are slowly adopting this orthodontic treatment into their practices.  

MYTH #11: “Insurance doesn’t cover Invisalign treatments.”

Since most patients believe that Invisalign is nothing more than just a cosmetic treatment, they automatically assume that their insurance company won’t cover it. However, if your insurance covers traditional metal braces, it will likely cover Invisalign treatment. It’s best to quickly call your insurance agent to ask them about your coverage.

MYTH #12: “Using DIY aligners is just as effective.”  

Some people prefer using DIY (do-it-yourself) or DTC (direct-to-customer) clear aligners to straighten their teeth. Unfortunately, those who sign up for DIY or DTC treatment methods don’t realize that teeth straightening is best done under the supervision of a qualified dental professional.

For instance, DIY aligners don’t have attachments or tiny orthodontic devices needed to ensure tooth movements achieve the best results. In some cases, ideal straightening results may require minor teeth recontouring, which only a dental professional can do for you. Moreover, without a dentist to create a customized treatment plan and monitor your progress, you’ll risk facing additional costs for improvement that could’ve happened all along.

Considering Invisalign in Aurora, CO?

At Makowski Dental, we offer caring and comprehensive dental care that meets your specific needs – from simple checkups to full mouth restorations, we can handle it all. Whatever your smile goals may be, we’ll do everything possible to help you achieve them.

Our team of professionals is committed to providing high-quality dental services using cutting-edge techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to resolve your problems quickly and effectively.  

Additionally, we understand how stressful going to the dentist’s office can be. For this reason, you can count on us to make sure that your visit with us is as pleasant and comfortable as possible. If you’re ready to get the smile of your dreams, contact us today to make an appointment.

**Invisalign®, the Invisalign logo, and iTero®, among others, are trademarks and/or service marks of Align Technology, Inc. or one of its subsidiaries or affiliated companies and may be registered in the U.S. and/or other countries.