The jaw system is a complex structure made up of many bones, teeth, ligaments, and muscles. If any part of this system isn't functioning properly or your teeth are crooked, it can lead to jaw pain, enamel erosion, and other unpleasant symptoms. It's important to know that any malocclusion should be examined and treated by an orthodontist. In recent years, clear aligners have become a popular alternative, but there are many misconceptions about them. In this article, we have gathered seven common myths about Invisalign that can cause doubt and discomfort when choosing a treatment.

1. Invisalign braces are only effective for minor malocclusions

This is one of the most common myths that has arisen with the advent of technology. Modern digital protocols and the use of special activators (attachments) that are bonded to the teeth allow for the treatment of complex cases. Invisalign is ideally suited for treating deep, crossed, and open bites, as well as severe crowding. The final decision regarding the use of aligners is, of course, made by the orthodontist after a comprehensive diagnosis.

2. Treatment with clear aligners takes significantly longer than with traditional braces

The duration of treatment depends on the individual characteristics of tooth movement and the complexity of the malocclusion, not on the type of aligner. Thanks to ClinCheck's precise computer modeling, each movement is calculated with an accuracy of up to one micrometer. In many cases, treatment with the Invisalign system is even faster than with traditional braces because the forces are applied simultaneously to the entire circumference of the teeth.

3. Invisalign aligners are completely invisible and can therefore be worn while eating

Although the aligners are made of clear, medical-grade plastic and are virtually invisible to others, they must be removed for eating. Chewing can easily deform or damage the plastic. Additionally, hot drinks like tea or coffee can change the shape of the aligners, and staining products can make them opaque, so they become visible on your teeth.

4. You can wear the aligners for just a few hours a day

 The aligners only work when they are in place on your teeth and exerting constant micro-pressure. To achieve the planned result, the aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours a day. They should only be removed for eating and brushing your teeth. If you don't strictly follow this rule, your teeth will begin to return to their original position, and the entire treatment process will be delayed or will not proceed as planned.

5. Invisalign causes intense and persistent pain during the adjustment phase

Any orthodontic tooth movement involves some discomfort because bone tissue needs to be rebuilt. However, Invisalign patients report significantly less pain than with traditional braces. The pressure is distributed evenly and gently, and the greatest sensitivity occurs only in the first 2-3 days after the next set of aligners is fitted. Since the aligners contain no metal archwires or clasps, the mucous membranes of the cheeks and lips are neither damaged nor irritated.

6. This technology is only suitable for adult patients

There is a special line of aligners for children and teenagers called Invisalign Teen. It takes into account the specific characteristics of jaw growth and the eruption of permanent teeth. These aligners even have special color indicators that change color depending on how long they are worn. This helps parents and the dentist monitor the child's treatment progress.

7. Aligners affect normal speech and cause slurred speech

Speech may indeed change slightly in the first few days after inserting the first aligner, as the tongue needs to adjust to the foreign object in the mouth. However, this adjustment period is very short, usually only a few hours to a few days. The body quickly adapts to the thin material, and speech returns to normal, becoming clear and natural.