Is Invisalign® Treatment Right for Your Active Lifestyle?
&srotate=0)
Men, women, and teens who live an active lifestyle — including playing sports or participating in regular physical activities — often ask whether Invisalign aligners may be an appropriate option for their orthodontic needs. Generally speaking, the answer is yes. In fact, many patients prefer Invisalign vs. metal braces specifically for the benefits clear aligners offer associated with an active lifestyle.
For example, Invisalign patients don't have to worry about the risk of losing a metal bracket or getting scratched or poked by sharp wires in the event of contact during sports or physical activity the way patients wearing traditional braces might. Here, Farmingdale, NY Invisalign dentist Dr. Angela Ferrari of Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates shares additional benefits of Invisalign for athletes and active patients.
How does Invisalign treatment straighten your teeth?
Invisalign clear aligners work to straighten crooked teeth without braces by gradually shifting the teeth into their new position using a series of custom-made trays known as aligners. Every two weeks weeks, patients will switch to the next set of Invisalign aligners in the series, each of which is slightly straighter than the previous set.
Should I get Invisalign or braces?
The choice between braces or Invisalign aligners will depend on a number of individual factors, including the nature and extent of the patient's orthodontic needs, their personal preferences, and even their lifestyle. Patients who may be on camera or play a musical instrument regularly, for instance, may be excellent candidates for Invisalign treatment instead of braces — as Invisalign aligners can be temporarily removed for these types of activities.
Should athletes get Invisalign aligners?
One of the benefits of Invisalign for people who play sports or engage in regular physical activity is that there is no risk of being injured by metal brackets or sharp wires in the way that braces pose that risk. Instead, patients may continue to wear their smooth, comfortable clear aligners during physical activity and low-contact sports.
Should I take Invisalign out while playing sports?
Because Invisalign aligners have no wires, brackets, or other parts and pieces that could damage teeth in the event of direct contact during physical activity, it is generally considered safe to keep your Invisalign clear aligners in while playing sports. For high-contact sports and other higher-risk physical activities, however, patients may be advised to remove their Invisalign trays and wear a protective mouth guard designed specifically for athletics.
Even those who are not undergoing Invisalign treatment should consider a sports mouth guard to protect their teeth and other oral structures from trauma, injury, or damage during contact sports and activities.
When can I take my Invisalign out?
For optimal results, patients must be committed to wearing their Invisalign aligners around the clock — for up to 20 – 22 hours per day — including while sleeping. There are some times when Invisalign aligners can be taken out, including while:
- Eating or drinking
- Having your picture taken
- Playing a musical instrument, if needed
- Brushing and flossing your teeth
- Engaging in high-contact physical activities (replace Invisalign aligners with a sports mouth guard during these times and switch back to your clear aligners thereafter)
While it is generally considered appropriate — and even recommended, in some cases — to remove Invisalign trays during these brief periods, be sure to brush your teeth and put your Invisalign trays back in promptly to ensure an efficient and successful treatment so you can enjoy a straighter smile as soon as possible.
Choose Invisalign in Farmingdale, NY for a convenient solution to getting the straight, beautiful smile you've always wanted
If you have been thinking about getting braces but don't want to put your favorite activities on hold, Invisalign treatment may be an ideal choice. With removable Invisalign aligners, you can play sports, eat normally, and even have your photo taken without missing a beat.
To learn more about the many exciting advantages of Invisalign aligners, call our friendly team at Ferrari & Aldieri Dental Associates to schedule your private consultation and evaluation with Farmingdale, NY family dentist and Invisalign provider Dr. Angela Ferrari today.