It’s no secret that traditional metal braces do a great job of aligning your teeth and jaw and giving you a perfect smile! However, metal braces can sometimes cause some patients problems. Whether they find it too difficult to brush around the hardware or they are ready to get back to eating some of their favorite foods, metal braces aren’t for everyone. Many patients find that Invisalign is a much better option for their needs.
Can You Switch From Metal Braces To Invisalign
So, if you already have metal braces, is it too late to switch to Invisalign? In most cases, switching from metal braces to Invisalign is not a problem. Here are a few reasons you might decide to make the switch.
Easier Oral Hygiene Routine
Keeping your teeth clean while wearing metal braces can be a chore, and you might find yourself spending lots of time brushing and flossing. Not only do you need to brush around all of the brackets and hardware of the braces, but you also have to carefully thread your floss in between the wires to thoroughly floss your teeth.
If you try to brush too quickly, you can damage the hardware. Damage to the hardware creates even more problems, and you’ll find yourself making a trip to your orthodontist for a repair. All these time-consuming tasks could potentially be avoided with Invisalign.
With Invisalign, you simply remove the clear aligners and brush your teeth like normal. No more painstaking brushing and flossing processes. When you’re done with cleaning, simply put the aligners back on your teeth! Oral hygiene couldn’t be easier with Invisalign!
Improved Aesthetic Appearance
One reason that people tend to avoid traditional metal braces is because of the way they look. This is especially true for adults. Most adults avoid metal braces because of the stigma associated with wearing them. Although wearing metal braces is perfectly normal, some patients experience a lack of self-confidence and lower self-esteem while wearing metal braces.
Invisalign can help boost your self-confidence and help you return to smiling again. If you notice any of the following symptoms or behaviors, you might consider making the switch to Invisalign clear aligners:
- Low confidence during social interactions
- You find yourself not smiling and avoiding showing your teeth
- You have become more shy at school or work
- You are hesitant to laugh when you’re around others
Invisalign can help solve all of the issues above because the clear aligners are almost completely transparent. Other people probably won’t even notice that you’re wearing the aligners, so you can laugh and smile with full confidence again!
Follow A Normal Diet
When you got your metal braces put on, your orthodontist probably gave you a list of foods to avoid. The reason is that the foods may become stuck to your hardware or they might damage your braces while chewing. Some of the foods that people with metal braces are told to avoid include:
- Popcorn
- Chips
- Raw vegetables
- Corn on the cob
- Sticky candy
With Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about eating a special diet. You can enjoy all the same foods you normally would enjoy without braces. This is because you will remove the clear aligners when you eat. Simply remove the aligners, eat your meal, brush your teeth, and then place the aligners back on your teeth. So, you’ll be able to enjoy popcorn at the movies again!
Avoid Demineralization Of Your Teeth
Although this condition is somewhat rare, some patients experience demineralization of their teeth when wearing traditional metal braces. This causes white spots to appear on the teeth, and the spots are sometimes irreversible. If you notice any white spots forming, you should visit your dentist right away to help stop the problem from worsening.
Invisalign can significantly reduce the risk of demineralization. Since the aligners are removed when eating or brushing your teeth, there is far less chance that you will experience this condition. So, not only can Invisalign make brushing and cleaning your teeth easier, but it can also help prevent those white spots from forming on your teeth.
Make The Switch To Invisalign Today
If you’ve been considering making the switch to Invisalign, then schedule your consultation with Northern Virginia Orthodontics today. Our warm and inviting office will put you at ease, and our professional staff can walk you through all the options available to help you get the perfect smile. Reach out today to get the process started!