Can You Get Invisalign If You've Previously Had Braces? 

Did you know that more than 25% of people don't wear their retainer as instructed after completing their orthodontic treatment? If you are one of them and have noticed that your teeth have shifted again, you may wonder if you can correct your smile with Invisalign. 

So, can you get Invisalign treatment if you had braces before? 

Here's a quick answer. 

What You Need to Know About Invisalign 

Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that works similarly to braces. It applies controlled force on your teeth to move them into their correct position. 

But, unlike braces, Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made to fit over your teeth. Moreover, with the help of 3D imaging, the dentist will have a clear view of how your teeth will move during treatment and can map out a precise plan. As a result, they will know when it's the best time to change your aligners. Each set is slightly different from the other and is designed to be worn in a specific order to gradually and gently shift your teeth into place.

While certainly more comfortable than metal braces, you will need to wear your Invisalign aligners 20 to 22 hours a day to get the desired results. You can only remove them for eating, brushing, and flossing. 

Can I Use Invisalign If I Had Braces Before? 

Yes, you can use Invisalign even if you've had braces in the past. Many people who have worn braces turn to Invisalign to make minor adjustments or to correct shifting that has occurred after the braces were removed.

As we said, a great percentage of people don't wear their retainer as instructed. While the changes are not noticeable immediately, they slowly realize that their teeth are shifting back into their old position. 

However, whether Invisalign is good for you or not depends on the extent of the correction you need. If your teeth have just moved slightly then Invisalign may be a good treatment option for you. But, if your teeth have moved back into their old position and you are dealing with a more severe misalignment or bite issue, you may need to undergo treatment with traditional metal braces again to correct the problems. 

The extent of the misalignment will also determine the duration of your Invisalign treatment. Minor misalignments can be treated with Invisalign in as little as six months while more severe ones may require up to two years of treatment. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Invisalign Treatment? 

The only way to find out if Invisalign in Wilmington is right for you is to see Dr. Ben Friberg for a thorough consultation. He will examine your oral health and determine the course of action that will get you the perfect smile. 

Get in touch with us now to book your appointment.