Pros and Cons of Invisalign: A Comprehensive Guide

Dr. Malavi Sivakanesan (292322)
Clear Invisalign aligner tray held up against a bright smile
Invisalign

October 24, 2024

Invisalign has emerged as one of the most popular options to correct dental misalignments and bite issues. These customised and virtually invisible are designed to shift your teeth to their desired position and have been adopted by millions around the world to achieve their perfect smile.

If you are considering this procedure and thinking about the pros and cons of Invisalign all you need to do is to read this guide to make your decision making easier.

Pros of Invisalign

Invisalign treatment is noted as a revolutionary orthodontic option as compared to the traditional option of braces. It has numerous aesthetic and functional advantages, some of which are listed below:

Nearly Invisible

One of the top benefits of Invisalign is that they are discreet. Unlike traditional braces which have metal wires and brackets, Invisalign is practically invisible and nobody comes to know that you are wearing aligners.

This leaves you feeling confident and free to smile and talk without feeling self-conscious.

Treat a Variety of Oral Issues

Whether you have crowded teeth, suffer from bite issues such as overbite, crossbite, or underbite, or have gaps between your teeth, Invisalign addresses a wide range of orthodontic issues with excellent results.

Removable

Invisalign can be easily removed before eating and drinking. Unlike traditional braces that come with this restriction and may make enjoying your favourite foods cumbersome, Invisalign can be easily removed and placed back.

This also helps you maintain better oral hygiene. Since Invisalign can be removed easily, you don’t have to worry about bacteria or plaque buildup

Comfortable

One of the top benefits of Invisalign is that they are customised for each individual using 3D digital technology. Made of SmartTract, a proprietary thermoplastic material, which is moulded to snugly fit over your teeth and gums, they cause no irritation or discomfort while being worn.

With Invisalign, you can say goodbye to wires pinching your gums and cheeks and say hello to a smoother journey to a beautiful smile.

Cons of Invisalign

Here are some potential drawbacks to consider before opting for Invisalign treatment.

Expensive

One of the major drawbacks of Invisalign is that they are more expensive than traditional methods of teeth straightening.

However, you needn’t worry. At Complete Smiles, we offer a 0% interest-free finance option for your Invisalign treatment to help you save up to £2,000.

Discipline

While getting an Invisalign treatment, discipline is the key. To enhance the effectiveness of the treatment, you need to wear them for extended hours, which is anywhere between eighteen to twenty-two.

When you wear them for less-than-recommended time, their efficiency reduces and may affect the timeline of your treatment. That means whether you are at work or out with friends, you will have to clock in these hours. But as we look at it, it is only a minor inconvenience in lieu of better oral health and a dazzling smile.

Possible Initial Discomfort

You may experience minor soreness or irritation before your gums and teeth start getting used to the aligners. However, this discomfort is not for long and subsides within a few days.

Removed Before Eating or Drinking

Another disadvantage of Invisalign is that they need to be removed before eating or drinking anything. Invisalign aligners must be taken out before meals or drinking anything other than water, which can be inconvenient and requires extra care to avoid losing or damaging them.

Initial Speech Issues

Some people have reported slight speech impediments like lisping and feeling challenged while pronouncing certain words when they first started using Invisalign.

However, this issue is common and subsides within the first two weeks as you adapt to the aligner set.

Dry Mouth

Your mouth may feel dry as you begin adjusting to Invisalign. This is mainly due to a temporary drop in the saliva production that causes this sensation. This can be easily tackled by keeping yourself hydrated throughout the day.

Summing Up

Now that you know the pros and cons of Invisalign, you can make an informed choice for improving your oral health and confidence. Invisalign is an advanced and sure way to straighten your teeth. The minor disadvantage is that each person has a unique oral case and treatment goals.

At Complete Smiles, we create a supportive and tailor-made plan as we work towards a better smile. Contact our experienced dentists to learn more.

Photo of Dr. Malavi Sivakanesan

Dr. Malavi Sivakanesan (292322)

Dr. Malavi Sivakanesan is the principal dentist and co-founder at Complete Smiles in Harrow, Greater London. She is responsible for establishing the Complete Smiles brand throughout the United Kingdom and Europe and has 5 successful practices under her strong leadership.