Does Invisalign Really Work Houston, TX
Invisalign® created clear aligners to offer patients of varying ages an alternative to traditional bulky braces for orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners are nearly invisible, removable, and a discreet way to straighten the teeth. Dental professionals provide Invisalign to give patients the added benefit of professional checkups to receive proper care throughout treatment. However, many people may consider whether they actually work.
Invisalign treatment is available at Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles in Houston and the surrounding area. We help you understand what the treatment plan entails and how it works. Call us today at (713) 979-4127 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Results Come With Compliance
Invisalign has continually improved its technology and transformed over 9.6 million smiles since its inception. Various updates and additions have allowed for more complicated conditions to be treated effectively. The Invisalign difference is its SmartTrack material, designed for comfort and faster treatment; SmartForce attachments and precision wings for more predictable tooth movement; and SmartStaging technology that predicts desired and planned outcomes. The iTero® Element Scanner scans the gumline to create more accurate, comfortable, and secure aligners.
During treatment, a patient must wear the aligners for roughly 22 hours a day, removing them only for eating and brushing. They will have routine checkups every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on their treatment plan, in which we examine the teeth. Invisalign treatment may not work as effectively if a patient fails to adhere to the specific instructions regarding wear time, hygiene practices, maintenance, and care.
“Invisalign has continually improved its technology and transformed over 9.6 million smiles since its inception.”
Commonality by Age Group
Invisalign is made for patients of all ages. A 2015 article found that Invisalign treatment is common in patients between 13.6 and 31.9 years old. We find that teens and adults are the most common patients seeking Invisalign treatment due to its comfort, discreetness, and shortened treatment time.
Invisalign created the first clear aligner treatment, called Invisalign First, for children with primary teeth and growing permanent teeth. Children start growing permanent teeth between 6 and 7 years old, and orthodontic treatment can help guide the teeth into proper development. Invisalign treatment is available for children, teens, and adults with conditions viable for treatment.
“We find that teens and adults are the most common patients seeking Invisalign treatment due to its comfort, discreetness, and shortened treatment time.”
What to Know About Invisalign
As mentioned above, many teenagers and adults are good candidates for Invisalign. However, as metal braces tend to deliver more precise results, Invisalign is best for patients with mild or moderately crowded teeth. Patients with minor teeth spacing issues may also benefit from clear aligners. Anyone who wants to start Invisalign treatment must also first address any gum disease or other dental disease, making dental appointments essential.
Furthermore, patients with more complicated issues with crowding or spacing (such as severe underbites, overbites, or crossbites) may require more intensive treatment. Invisalign is also typically unsuitable for children, as their mouths are usually still developing. Their teeth are still growing and changing, making them too unpredictable for clear aligners.
“…Invisalign is best for patients with mild or moderately crowded teeth.”
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Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces
There are a few differences between Invisalign and braces. Clear aligners have the advantage of being both discrete and removable. This allows patients to continue living their lifestyle with very few restrictions and keep their oral cavity clean. However, patient compliance is crucial with Invisalign treatment as not adhering to an orthodontist's specified instructions can limit or diminish anticipated results.
Braces are extremely durable as they are made of metal and tightly connected by wire. They offer patients a bit of personality through the variety of colored wires available, often an intriguing factor for children and adolescents. An added advantage is they cannot be lost or broken, especially favorable for young patients. However, there is a list of restricted foods and beverages with braces treatment as they can easily cause enamel deterioration and gingival decay. Patients with braces must learn what to avoid and how to properly clean and maintain their oral cavity during treatment.
“Clear aligners have the advantage of being both discrete and removable.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
Q. What results come with compliance?
Q. Is there commonality by age group?
Q. What is the difference invisalign vs. traditional braces?
Q. What should I avoid during treatment?
People Also Ask
Q. What conditions can Invisalign treat?
Q. How long will my teen need to wear Invisalign?
Q. What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?
Q. How can someone find the right Invisalign Dentist?
Q. Are clear aligners a time-saving treatment?
Q. What are the aesthetic differences between braces and Invisalign?
What to Avoid During Treatment
Although there are not many strict limitations on food and drink with Invisalign treatment since they are removable, we advise patients against certain items that may produce undesirable effects. Sugary, sticky, and acidic foods and beverages can stain, discolor, or weaken the natural surface layer of the teeth. Also, high-staining agents, such as coffee, tea, and wine, can affect the teeth.
Also, not removing the aligners when eating and drinking can trap bacteria and plaque, causing decay and enamel deterioration. This can have negative effects on the patient's overall treatment. It is vital that patients properly clean out the aligners, thoroughly brush their teeth, floss, and rinse at least twice daily to maintain the aligners and good oral health.
“Sugary, sticky, and acidic foods and beverages can stain, discolor, or weaken the teeth’s natural surface layer.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is not a candidate for Invisalign treatment?
A. Invisalign is not for patients with severe dental or orthodontic conditions. It may not be suitable for patients who have difficulty with self-reliance or know they may not adhere to necessary protocol. Lastly, patients with several prior dental treatments or surgeries may not be good candidates due to weakened bone.
Q. How is candidacy determined?
A. During the initial consultation, patients are examined using a 3D scanner that takes hundreds of photos per second and creates an accurate digital image. We also conduct a physical oral exam and check for any signs of wear-and-tear or gingival decay. The Invisalign system interprets the findings and helps us determine whether the patient is a good candidate for treatment.
Q. What happens during Invisalign treatment?
A. Once a patient qualifies for Invisalign, we curate a treatment plan using the smile scan conducted during the consultation. The 3D renderings are sent to a lab that creates the custom trays for the first few weeks. The patient will have follow-up appointments every 4 to 6 weeks to check progress and are given their next sets of aligners.
Q. Will I have to wear a retainer after I complete treatment?
A. As with all orthodontic treatments, it is highly advised that patients wear a retainer to avoid relapse or shifting. Teeth tend to naturally shift back to their original placement without a device applying a specific amount of force. However, wearing a retainer even once a week for at least a year can make a big difference in long-term results.
Q. How long is the average treatment duration with Invisalign?
A. The length of treatment varies with each case. Patients may take as little as six months or as long as three years depending on the severity of their condition. It also depends largely on patient adherence to their individualized instructions and proper care and maintenance.
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Invisalign® Terminology
Learn More Today
Invisalign can help you get the smile of your dreams without a mouth full of metal. We at Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles can help. Call us today at (713) 979-4127 to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- Invisalign®. How Invisalign Works. 2025
- Invisalign®. Take the Smile Assessment. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
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