What Invisalign Can And Can’t Do For You

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Invisalign revolutionized orthodontics. Over five million orthodontic patients worldwide are interested in the transparent plastic aligner system. Better aesthetics are the most enticing aspect of the novel treatment procedure, but they should not be the only factor to consider when considering orthodontic treatment. Other therapies, such as braces, may more effectively correct some issues.

Which Orthodontic Problems Can Invisalign Treat?

Invisalign NYC can correct the following issues in some people but not all, depending on the severity or whether there are several concerns.

Crooked teeth

If you want to straighten your smile, Invisalign is a possibility.

Overbite

An overbite (when the top teeth are too much in front of the lower teeth) might make it difficult to chew and bite into certain meals. Can Invisalign correct an overbite? Yes, in some situations, Invisalign can be used to relocate teeth so that the top and bottom teeth align correctly when your mouth closes.

Underbite

An underbite (when your lower teeth are in front of your upper teeth) might cause your teeth to wear down faster and make speaking harder. Can Invisalign correct an underbite? Yes, Invisalign may be used to shift the lower teeth back so that they are naturally behind the front teeth.

Braces may be used in conjunction with Invisalign in extreme circumstances, and Invisalign cannot correct all cases of underbite.

Crossbite

In many circumstances, Invisalign can realign improperly positioned teeth and cure a crossbite.

Gaps in teeth

If you have a gap between two or more teeth, food can become trapped between the teeth and the gums, causing discomfort and gum disease. Invisalign can reduce gaps to promote a healthier mouth and a more attractive smile, but there are restrictions to how much space can be closed.

Open bite

Invisalign may repair an open bite (when the upper and lower teeth do not touch) by shifting the upper and lower teeth into place so that they shut adequately.

Crowded teeth

Crowding occurs when there is insufficient room in the jaw to fit all of your teeth, causing them to overlap and twist. Invisalign can help with certain cases of crowded teeth, depending on the degree and intricacy of the condition.

Limitations of Invisalign

Invisalign does not have the same force or ability to shift teeth as braces. As a result, sophisticated orthodontic treatment or situations involving substantial tooth movement require braces rather than Invisalign to get the desired result.

The following are some scenarios when Invisalign may not be as effective as braces:

Tooth shape

Some individuals' teeth are not suitable for fitting within the aligner. Short, spherical, pegged teeth or those with harsh points may prevent the aligner from getting a solid hold. As a result, the aligner does not effectively move your teeth into the appropriate position.

Tooth position

When a mouth is congested, a tooth may rotate to accommodate. Invisalign cannot reposition molars that are rotated more than 20 degrees into the appropriate position. The degree of rotation may be greater if the rotated teeth are canines, premolars, or incisors.

Teeth can also be shifted forward or back to fit in a crowded mouth. If the tilt exceeds 45 degrees, Invisalign will struggle to lift the tooth into the proper position.

Large gaps between teeth

Whether a patient wants to correct a single gap between two teeth or numerous gaps, Invisalign can only reliably close up to 6mm per arch (top or bottom teeth). Braces use force to shift teeth into place, but Invisalign moves front teeth and nearly no rear teeth.

Midline movements

Some patients' front teeth do not match their midline. Invisalign can fix a 2mm midline difference to the left or right per arch, but anything bigger requires braces.

Previous dental work

Some past dental treatments may restrict individuals from using Invisalign. A dental bridge can make it hard to use Invisalign. Patients with porcelain veneers or crowns may be unable to use attachments with Invisalign because they cannot bind to the surface.