There are many factors that can impact how Invisalign cases adapt to treatment. From starting the condition of a patient to patient compliance, providers must be aware of the different things that can impact Invisalign outcome. But did you know that sports can affect Invisalign outcomes?
It’s true! There are certain sports and athletic events that can impact treatment plans and outcomes of Invisalign patients. Let’s discuss why it is important to be aware of what sports your patient may play when starting Invisalign.
How Sports and Activities Can Affect Invisalign Outcome
Sports and hobbies can affect how patients’ teeth move and respond to treatment. Children and teens who engage in sports and other competitive activities are more easily able to meet compliance standards when framing Invisalign instructions as a challenge. When treating these patients, be sure to reference orthodontic treatment as a goal-based system to these patients because it helps them put it into perspective.
Compliance is one of the positive ways that sports can impact Invisalign treatment, but there are also negative ways that Invisalign success can be impacted by sports. High-impact or contact sports can necessitate that Invisalign is chosen over braces due to the risk of braces breaking can cause trauma to the face. Some of these high-risk sports include soccer, hockey, lacrosse, karate, football, basketball, volleyball, and anything that could involve a major hit to the face.
It’s important to get to know your patients so that you are aware of these risks and potential preferences. Invisalign is the preferable choice for many patients who are in sports and activities. A patient who likes to do theatre or modeling may have a preference for Invisalign due to aesthetics, and it is up to providers to be aware of how treatment plans might impact their patient’s enjoyment of sports and activities.