Take Two: Can You Get Invisalign If You Had Braces in the Past?

For better or worse, traditional braces are associated with kids and teenagers, and like many that age, you had braces back in school. Your smile was corrected and perfectly straight, but since then, your teeth have shifted out of alignment again. You want to avoid having to wear braces a second time as an adult, if possible. After all, you’re not a kid anymore, and you shouldn’t have to look like one!

You know Invisalign is an option for straightening teeth, but can you get this treatment if you had braces before? The short answer is a resounding yes! In fact, Invisalign is perfect for those who have regressed for the following important reasons.

Invisalign Is Much More Discreet.

As an adult, you probably would prefer not to get braces again purely for cosmetic reasons. Back when you wore braces, everyone who saw you knew it. Although today’s braces have made great strides in becoming more subtle, the obvious metal brackets and wires are impossible to hide, and in some situations, they can attract unwanted attention. Especially after meals, bits of food stuck in the hardware can draw others’ eyes for all the wrong reasons.

In stark contrast, Invisalign is barely visible when worn and won’t interfere with your appearance at all!

Invisalign Is More Comfortable.

Throughout your treatment with braces, but especially that first week, getting used to having them in your mouth was probably a struggle. In addition to the pressure on your teeth, traditional braces bring rough brackets that can irritate or even cut your cheeks and lips. The wires could also poke your soft tissues, adding to your discomfort. Again, modern braces are designed to be smoother than in the past, but your soft tissues still have to adjust.

Invisalign’s clear plastic aligners are tight fitting to your unique set of teeth and are designed to be completely smooth. You may still experience some soreness when you start a new set of aligners, but it should be much easier to handle than the pain you had with braces in your youth.

Invisalign Is Faster.

Whether you work in the fast lane or not, chances are you don’t want to draw out your treatment. You want results as quickly as possible! While traditional braces can take up to three years to complete, Invisalign typically is finished within 18 months at most. You can achieve your goal and move on with a straight smile sooner with these clear aligners.

If you need retreatment for your smile, braces aren’t your only available option. Invisalign can give you results without all the baggage that comes with metal brackets and wires. As an adult, you’ve outgrown braces, and it’s time to use a more grownup treatment!

About the Practice

At Applegate Dental, our team of three highly trained dentists are proud to offer Invisalign to both adults and teens. We are an insurance-friendly practice and will do everything possible to use patients’ benefits to help pay for Invisalign treatment. If you have questions about Invisalign, insurance, or anything else associated with your smile, don’t hesitate to reach out to us online or call our West Seneca office at 716-712-5301.