Am I a Good Candidate for Clear Braces?

Achieve a straighter smile with clear braces.

It should come as no surprise that smiling is good for us. It naturally makes us feel better, releasing feel-good neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin. Endorphins make us feel relaxed and happy and even serve as a natural pain reliever.

However, if you have crooked teeth, chances are you may not feel like smiling as often out of embarrassment. And the idea of traditional metal braces could be a deterrent too due to their look, feel, and treatment time. Thankfully, clear braces are available. If you are a good candidate for clear braces, you can experience a straighter smile more comfortably, and no one will know you are wearing invisible braces but you.

Are you a candidate for clear braces?

If you want a straighter smile but aren’t interested in the traditional metal braces you or your classmates wore as teenagers, you might be a candidate for clear braces. While everyone is different and your dentist will need to assess the complexity of your case, you’ll most likely be a candidate if you meet the following criteria:

1. You have the discipline to stick to the program.

You will need to wear your Invisalign clear aligners for 22 hours each day, only removing them to eat and brush your teeth. Further, you will need to brush your teeth after each meal and snack to ensure food particles do not get stuck in the aligners.

2. You can keep your clear aligners clean.

Though it is easy to care for your clear braces, you will need to make some effort every day. You will need to rinse your aligners with water every night and brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear liquid soap to remove debris and food particle accumulation. You will also need to ensure you do not lose your clear braces. If you do, contact your dentist to ensure your treatment process does not stall.

3. You have a healthy mouth to begin with.

Though it is possible to start an Invisalign treatment plan if you have a cavity, dentists generally do not recommend this. If you have a cavity or gum disease, your dentist will want to work with you to treat those ailments before you begin using your clear braces. This will ensure you start treatment with the best possible chance for optimal results.

4. You do not use tobacco products.

Unfortunately, if you use tobacco products, you will not be the best candidate for clear braces. Tar and nicotine can stain the clear trays, and even if you remove your clear aligners to smoke or chew tobacco, that tar and nicotine can linger in your mouth and cause discoloration when you put your Invisalign back in. If you use tobacco products and take your aligners out to smoke or chew, chances are you will not be able to keep your aligners in place for the required 22 hours per day. If you smoke but want to straighten your teeth, now is the time to quit and take back your smile and your health.

How much do Invisalign clear braces cost?

We are frequently asked about the cost of Invisalign clear braces; however, it’s impossible to give one answer because the cost will vary based on how complex your unique dental situation is. So, the best way to find out how much Invisalign clear braces will cost you is to have a consultation with your dentist to discuss your candidacy and other treatment details, including costs. Only your dentist can help you determine your options and understand how much you will need to pay.

Although clear braces are a relatively fast way to straighten your teeth, your dentist will manage your expectations around both timing and cost. They can also show you before-and-after Invisalign photos so you can know what to expect for your smile.

Consult with your dentist to see if Invisalign clear braces are the right choice for you.

If you have crooked teeth, live or work near Reading, Massachusetts, and think you are a candidate for clear braces, the First Dental Associates team would love to meet you. If it is determined you are a good candidate, then before you know it, you’ll be on your way to a straighter smile. And if you are not a candidate, your dentist can discuss other options with you. So, what are you waiting for? Call us at (781) 202-5612 to request an appointment today.