While you have probably heard of Invisalign®, you might not know how it works. If your dentist recommends orthodontic treatment, ask about this alternative—especially if you’re dreading the look of braces. For certain patients, Invisalign can be a cosmetic game-changer.

Not all teeth grow in straight, but if they are left unaddressed, alignment issues can become severe. Although crooked teeth have a substantial impact on your appearance, cosmetic issues are only the tip of the iceberg. Over time, misalignment can make simple tasks like chewing, brushing, and flossing far more difficult than they should be. If a dental professional suggests you need braces, it’s crucial to heed their advice.

However, just because you invest in orthodontic treatment doesn’t mean you will spend the next year with unsightly metal hiding your smile. With Invisalign, a professional technician will take an X-ray of your teeth, then use the images to create transparent molds that snap over your teeth like an invisible retainer. By gradually altering the shape of these molds to shift your teeth over time, your dentist can move your smile into alignment.

The most noticeable benefit of Invisalign braces is that no one will even know you’re wearing them—they’re crystal clear. On top of that, they’re more comfortable than other forms of orthodontic treatment. Since you can remove them whenever you’d like, it’s easier to enjoy meals and keep up with oral hygiene practices.

That said, not every patient is eligible for Invisalign. If a dentist deems your alignment problems too severe, this treatment won’t be effective. Consult with a dental professional and ask them if they think this modern alternative will suit your smile. They’ll make sure you invest in the ideal orthodontic treatment and get the results you’ve been craving.

Interested in learning more about Invisalign? Schedule an appointment with Nicholas J. Hurley, D.D.S., P.A., in Thomasville, NC, today. For more information about becoming a patient, contact his clinic online, or call (336) 476-1109.