I went to see an orthodontist about options in fixing my teeth. I was hoping to avoid braces altogether. I have some front teeth that are crooked. The orthodontist said that he tried Invisalign quite a few years ago and it did not work for the patients he tried it on. He’s recommending traditional braces. Is this my only option?
Caroline
Dear Caroline,
I’m glad you wrote. No, it is not your only option. It sounds like your orthodontist only tried Invisalign when they first came out. In the beginning, Invisalign would only work on the most ideal cases. Since then, they have made great strides in being able to handle more cases. In fact, as of this post, Invisalign is able to treat all but the most complicated cases.
Orthodontists were trained in traditional braces. Not all of them are comfortable moving out of their original training. Plus, general dentists can provide Invisalign, which cuts into an orthodontist’s business.
You mentioned that you just had some front teeth that are crooked. Unless there is something extraordinarily unusual about your case, then Invisalign is a great solution for you. In fact, it even has a hidden benefit. The aligners can double as teeth whitening trays. You just need to ask your dentist to provide you with some professional strength teeth whitening gel. You place the gel inside your aligners at a time that is convenient to you.
This allows you to straighten and whiten your teeth at the same time, giving you the equivalent of a mini smile makeover at a fraction of the cost that it would be if you did the two procedures separately. Even dentists who only offer Zoom Whitening can provide you with whitening gel for your aligners.
I hope this helps. Talk to a few dentists who offer Invisalign. This will give you more than one opinion about your particular case. Based on what you’ve described, I don’t think you are going to have any problems.
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