If you’re looking for Invsialign® clear aligners in Nanaimo, read this first.
At Nanaimo Smiles, we know that there are a lot of myths floating around about Invisalign®, and we’re here to “clear” things up (sorry, we had to). Originally the new kid on the straighter-teeth block, Invisalign® is now a very popular choice for teens and adults looking to straighten their teeth–over 15 million people around the world have straighter smiles thanks to Invisalign®, But, we know for some it can sound too good to be true: Straighter teeth without the hassle of traditional braces? Well, believe it! These are six common myths that our team at Nanaimo Smiles hear all too often.
But Wait, What Is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gradually move your teeth into their desired positions. These aligners are made from a smooth, BPA-free plastic that’s virtually invisible when worn.
To create Invisalign® aligners, your Nanaimo dentist first takes detailed 3D scans of your teeth (the same advanced dental technology we use for custom trays for your teeth whitening). These scans are then used to design a personalized treatment plan, mapping out how your teeth will shift over time. Using advanced software, your dentist can predict each stage of movement, ensuring that the aligners are perfectly suited to your mouth.
Once the treatment plan is set, a set of aligners is manufactured, each designed to be worn for about one to two weeks. The aligners are created using specialized 3D printing technology to ensure they fit snugly and comfortably. As you progress through each set of aligners, your teeth gradually shift towards the final desired position.
MYTH 1: “Invisalign® is only for correcting minor dental issues, like slight crowding or spacing.”
A lot of people think Invisalign® is only good for fixing small issues, like minor crowding or little gaps between teeth. Because of this, they assume it won’t work for bigger problems, like bite issues. But that’s simply not the case! In fact, Invisalign® is far more versatile than most people realize. At Nanaimo Smiles, we use Invisalign® to treat everything from mild alignment problems to more complicated concerns . Thanks to advanced dental technology, your Nanaimo dentist can create a treatment plan that’s customized specifically for your needs. Invisalign® uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the right position. So whether you’re dealing with a simple issue or something more complex, Invisalign can still be a great solution for achieving the smile you want.
MYTH 2: “Invisalign® is slower than traditional braces.”
Another myth we often hear at Nanaimo Smiles is that Invisalign® takes longer to straighten teeth than traditional metal braces. While this may have been true in the past, it’s no longer the case for every patient. In fact, Invisalign can often give you faster results than braces. For some patients, Invisalign treatment takes about 12-18 months, whereas metal braces can take two years or even longer. The reason Invisalign tends to work faster is because it uses a series of custom-made aligners that you change out every 1-2 weeks. These aligners move your teeth more efficiently than traditional braces, which need regular tightening and adjustments. Plus, with Invisalign®, you’ll have fewer dental office visits and see a 3D rendering of how your smile will shift in weeks/months to come, which can help make the whole process more streamlined and predictable.
MYTH 3: “Invisalign® is uncomfortable and difficult to wear.”
A lot of people think that wearing Invisalign® is uncomfortable and that it’ll be tough to get used to. We get it—it might sound a little intimidating to wear aligners for months, but the reality is that Invisalign is actually much more comfortable than traditional braces. While you might feel some tightness when switching to a new set of aligners, that’s completely normal and means your treatment is working. Unlike braces, which have metal wires and brackets that can irritate your mouth, Invisalign® aligners are made of smooth plastic that won’t rub against your gums. Plus, because the aligners are removable, you can take them out to eat, drink, and brush your teeth whenever you want. No worries about food getting stuck in brackets or being unable to enjoy your favourite meals.
MYTH 4: “Invisalign® requires a lot of maintenance and effort.”
Many people believe that Invisalign takes a lot of work, like constantly cleaning the aligners or being super diligent about upkeep. But in reality, Invisalign® is actually pretty low-maintenance. Since the aligners are removable, you can brush and floss your teeth just like you normally would. Cleaning your aligners is also easy—just rinse them with water and brush them with a soft toothbrush. There are no wires or brackets to worry about, which makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene compared to traditional braces. Plus, you’ll have fewer dental appointments—usually only every 6-8 weeks—since there are no wires to adjust.
MYTH 5: “Invisalign® is only for people with perfect oral health.”
Don’t think you’re eligible for Invisalign® just because you’re a bit behind on cleanings or check-ups? Think again! Invisalign® can be a great option for people with a variety of dental conditions, even if you’re dealing with issues like cavities or gum disease. While your Nanaimo dentist and hygienist will make sure any existing dental concerns are addressed first, Invisalign® can still work for you. Once your teeth and gums are healthy, you can move forward with aligning your teeth. In fact, straightening your teeth with Invisalign® can actually improve your overall oral health by making it easier to clean your teeth and preventing future dental problems.
MYTH 6: “Invisalign® is too expensive.”
Another common concern is the cost of Invisalign®. Many people assume it’s much more expensive than traditional braces and that it’s just out of their budget. While Invisalign® may have a slightly higher upfront cost, it’s often not as expensive as people think. At Nanaimo Smiles, we believe that everyone deserves a straight, healthy smile, which is why we offer transparent, upfront estimates about dental care costs. We’re committed to helping you find a treatment plan that works for both your smile and your budget. If you have any questions about dental care costs, please do not hesitate to contact our team.
Invisalign® Clear Aligners in Nanaimo, BC
For anyone looking for straighter teeth, Invisalign® is a discreet and convenient option compared to traditional braces. If you have any questions about how Invisalign® works, how much Invisalign® costs, how Invisalign’s clear aligners are custom-made, or anything else that would make your journey to straighter teeth more convenient, please contact our Nanaimo dental office today.