Gone are the days of having only two choices for aligning teeth – metal or ceramic braces. With Invisalign, you can achieve the same results as traditional braces without sporting visible hardware. Invisalign gives just about everyone the option to straighten their smile under the radar! In fact, more than five million people around the world have benefited from this revolutionary treatment! But how do you know if your orthodontic needs can be met with Invisalign? Read on to learn which orthodontic issues Invisalign can treat.
Invisalign Treats a Wide Range of Orthodontic Issues
While not all patients are good candidates for Invisalign treatments, depending on severity and co-existing problems, a wide range of orthodontic issues are treatable with Invisalign. Consult with your orthodontist to see if Invisalign can help you achieve your goals! Generally speaking, Invisalign can treat:
- Crooked Teeth. Invisalign performs just as well with most patients as traditional braces. These clear plastic aligners can help you achieve a straight, healthy smile.
- Overbites and Underbites. When your teeth are misaligned so that your top teeth are closing too far from the bottom teeth (or vice-versa), Invisalign can help! In many cases, Invisalign can help move teeth so they align properly for a perfect bite.
- Crossbite. If some of your upper teeth are fitting inside lower teeth rather than outside, your teeth could chip or wear down and you can even experience a receding gum line. Generally speaking, Invisalign can correct this issue so that your teeth move into their proper places.
- Gapped Teeth. If you have a spacing issue that is causing food to become caught between teeth and gums, you could be experiencing pain and potentially develop gum disease. Invisalign can close gaps to create a healthier, more aesthetic smile.
- Open Bite. When your upper and lower teeth don’t meet, an uncomfortable open bite can result and exacerbate other orthodontic problems. Invisalign can move upper and lower teeth into position so they close correctly.
- Crowded Teeth. Crowded teeth that twist and overlap are caused by a lack of room in your jaw to accommodate all of your teeth. That can cause tartar and plaque to build up and contribute to tooth decay or gum disease. Invisalign can help in many cases of crowding, depending on severity and complexity of the issue.
What If My Orthodontic Issues Can’t Be Treated by Invisalign?
Some orthodontic issues are so severe or complex that Invisalign might not be your first option. Some of the most common issues that prevent the use of Invisalign right away include:
- Short, Pegged, or Extremely Pointed Teeth
- Severe Tooth Rotation
- Large Gaps Between Teeth
- Intrusion and Extrusion of Teeth
- Midline Movement
- Some Previous Dental Work (Like Dental Bridges)
- Extractions Before or During Treatment
If you’re not a good candidate for Invisalign immediately, don’t worry. Your orthodontic issues can likely be treated with traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments. Your orthodontist will take your preferences into consideration and may be able to help you create a plan to treat more severe issues with traditional braces and switch to Invisalign for continued treatment. You can discuss your options with your orthodontist at regular appointments and check ups.
Even if Invisalign is not available during the course of your treatment, orthodontists will sometimes recommend the clear aligners to maintain your smile. Especially if your orthodontic treatment corrected severe issues with teeth and jaw alignment for a straight, healthy smile, you’ll want to protect your investment over the long run. In these cases, Invisalign can be a great long-term treatment and maintenance option.
Explore Your Invisalign Options with Hodge Orthodontics
At Hodge Orthodontics, our team is regularly recognized as the best in the business! Our orthodontists take time to explain all of your options and educate you about your oral health. We’re here for you from your first visit through regular check ups for a life-long straight and healthy smile. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about Invisalign and your treatment options!