Tag Archives: clear braces

Invisalign

Can Invisalign Widen My Smile?

When I was younger, I needed orthodontic work. The dentist said I’d need a palette expander, but my parents thought that was too expensive so it never happened. Now, as an adult, I am stuck with all these problems with my teeth to deal with. I have a narrow bite and some crowding. I have heard some people say that Invisalign can actually help with this. Is that true or am I giving myself false hope?

Carolyn

Dear Carolyn,

Invisalign aligners
Invisalign Aligner

Generally speaking, clear braces, such as Invisalign, can widen a smile, but you must remember that each case is unique and there are limitations. Much of this will depend on what shifting is necessary and how much space is available. Invisalign is planned by an advanced software program, so your dentist could run a simulation to show you what results you can expect before you make any decisions.

As I mentioned, there are limits. Your narrow palette could prove to be the biggest obstacle. Palettes are easily expandable when you are young because everything is still developing. Now that you are an adult and things are pretty much set, there is only so much movement possible. When dealing with overcrowding, especially in adults, dentists usually end up removing some teeth to make room for the proper placement.

I can’t give you specifics for your case and what is possible. My best advice to you would be to see two or three Invisalign certified dentists to get their recommendations for you specifically. Look at the computer simulations and decided which dentist you are most comfortable with.

I know it is frustrating when it would have been easier if your parents had handled this, but don’t be too hard on them. Money is finite and when there isn’t enough of it, you can’t just pull it out of thin air. They were probably doing the best they could.

This blog is brought to you by Lafayette, LA Dentists Drs. Foreman and Thimmesch.

Invisalign

Clear Braces versus Invisalign

This may sound strange, but I didn’t know “clear braces” and “Invisalign” were different things. I talked to my dentist about doing Invisalign and he sent me for a consultation with the orthodontist, who then began talking about clear braces. We went through the whole process of treatment plans, impressions, x-rays, insurance, and they even took my down payment. I don’t know if I ever should have caught on, but I know they never explained it to me.

So, the big day comes where I think I’m getting my aligners and they start messing around with my teeth, so I finally ask if all that is necessary since I’m just there to get my aligners. That’s when they tell me they’re putting real braces on my teeth.

I’m 34. I work in a professional setting. I didn’t want regular braces. So, then the orthodontist comes back over and explains how I really have to use regular braces to correct my smile and how he’s certain he explained that to me. He didn’t. I know he didn’t. But, he makes his case and I go along with it. Disappointed, but I figure, at least they’re clear.

We’re a month in and they’re a hideous shade of yellow. I look ridiculous. My teeth look gross, like I don’t brush them. And no amount of brushing them is helping.

Would this have happened if I did Invisalign? Should I have insisted on it? And, if I should have done that, is it too late to switch?

Thanks,

Eric

Dear Eric,

Invisalign aligner
Invisalign: The adult solutions to braces

I’m sorry you are having such a frustrating experience. Theoretically, any kind of plastic can yellow like that, but you don’t see it as much with aligners because people aren’t supposed to be eating or drinking with them in and you replace them every couple weeks.

You May Still Be a Candidate for Invisalign

The good news is, you still may be a candidate for Invisalign. While it used to be only the most ideal cases were candidates for Invisalign, these days they can take on all but the most challenging cases.

It sounds like this orthodontist’s communication skills are lacking. You can ask him about switching over, but it doesn’t address the underlying issue—they didn’t give you all the information you needed. It’s worthwhile to have a consultation with another dentist or two to see if you’re a candidate for the aligners.

You Might Also Be Able to Fix Your Yellow Braces

Usually, the bands get changed out once per month, so you’re either due for a change or coming due for one. That will give you a chance to start fresh. Unfortunately, if you have habits like smoking, it’ll be an uphill battle to keep them clear.

Ultimately, the choice is yours—only you know whether it’s worth the trouble of trying to switch at this point. However, if you’re a candidate, you can switch at any point. If you decide to switch dentists, which I would not blame you for, he is ethically obligated to send all the diagnostic x-rays, etc. to your new dentist.

This blog is sponsored by Lafayette, LA Dentist Dr. Mike Malone.