10 Myths About Invisalign Braces Debunked

Metal Mouth, Tinsel Teeth, Tin Grin, and even Cheese Grater. If you wore braces in the ’80s and ’90s chances are you’re familiar with these nicknames. Thankfully orthodontic treatments (think Invisalign braces) have come a long way, which means brace-ism is a thing of the past and people of all ages can enjoy a more comfortable and discreet option. And yes, one of these is Invisalign. Over the last 15 years or so, these clear braces have helped teenagers and adults straighten their teeth without the discomfort of brackets and metal wires. But as its popularity has increased, so too have the Invisalign myths and misconceptions. As a preferred Invisalign provider in Bee Cave and Lakeway, we want to not only set your teeth straight, but also set the record straight. Let’s debunk the 10 most common myths we hear from patients at Tomasik Family Dental.

10 of the Most Common Invisalign Myths

Myth 1 - Invisalign works best for minor or cosmetic corrections

Some people think that because Invisalign braces don’t look as “menacing”  as traditional ones, they’re not as effective. This is definitely not the case. You’ll be happy to know that while they might move teeth differently, Invisalign can be used to correct pretty much any orthodontic concern.

Myth 2 – Invisalign is a lot more expensive than traditional braces

We hear this one a lot too, and it could be because patients think the Invisalign system is more cosmetic than corrective. Cost-wise, Invisalign is comparable to traditional braces.

Myth 3 – I’m too old for Invisalign

We can see why some people would think this, but the truth is that Invisalign is suitable for teenagers and adults. In fact, we’ve had patients in their ’60s asking about these clear braces that are more discreet than traditional ones.

Myth 4 – Invisalign is uncomfortable

While it may take some getting used to, Invisalign is a lot more comfortable than traditional braces. You can take them out when you eat, and because you don’t have the discomfort of wires and brackets, you won’t have to worry about cuts on your lips and the inside of your cheeks.

Myth 5 – But Invisalign braces aren’t invisible

No, Invisalign braces are not entirely invisible; after all, we’re not at Hogwarts. But because they are clear, most people won’t notice that you’re wearing them, especially compared with very visible traditional braces.  

Myth 6 – They’re a lot more work

This is a common misconception, but you’ll find that as soon as you have a routine in place, Invisalign braces aren’t any more work than other orthodontic products. Yes, you need to remove them when you eat or drink, and you need to brush your teeth and aligner regularly. Once patients see the results, they agree that it’s worth every moment.

Myth 7 – Invisalign takes longer to work than traditional braces

Again, this could be because Invisalign looks a lot less invasive than conventional braces, but the truth is the processes take around the same time. The cutting-edge technology used with the clear braces ensures the correction is continuous, albeit gradual.

Myth 8 – I don’t want to talk funny

You might find that you’ll speak with a lisp for two or three days or if you put the aligner back in after a long time, but it doesn’t last long. You’ll find you adapt fairly quickly, as long as you don’t try saying “she sells sea-shells on the seashore” straight away.

Myth 9 – You can’t eat certain foods

One of the significant advantages of Invisalign is being able to eat and drink anything you like, unlike with metal or wire braces. It is recommended, however, that you take your aligner out when you do. Also, make sure you floss and brush your teeth before you put the aligner back in.

Myth 10 – Invisalign braces aren't covered by health insurance

In our experience, we’ve found that most insurance companies cover Invisalign just like they would other braces. It might differ depending on the health insurance you have, but all you need to do is make a quick call to your service provider to find out about your coverage. No insurance? No problem. We have a dental plan with loads of membership benefits, along with excellent dental care at an affordable price, so you have even more to smile about.More than 4 million people have taken advantage of these clear braces to straighten their teeth and get their confidence back. Our team at Tomasik Family Dental is a preferred Invisalign provider in Lakeway and Bee Cave, and we’ll be more than happy to do an assessment. We guarantee that you’ll have loads to smile about.