Conditions Invisalign Can Correct

Invisalign® has been making big waves in the orthodontic industry since its introduction in 1989. The system is a discreet way to straighten teeth using custom trays. Take a closer look at how the system stacks up against traditional braces and the conditions it can correct.

Comparing traditional braces to Invisalign

Traditional braces are the most common orthodontic appliances, and with great reason—they are powerful. However, they can still be more visible than patients want. Additionally, the treatment plan will include some diet restrictions and special cleaning requirements to protect the hardware. With this treatment, they can address all malocclusions or tooth misalignments within three years.

Invisalign, on the other hand, offers a more discreet alignment plan. While it can help address many malocclusions, it does have limitations, such as its ability only to address mild to moderate ones. However, they can do so in 18 months or less.

Malocclusions Invisalign can address

Crossbites

Crossbites can be painful, depending on their severity. They are characterized as any twisted or turned teeth that cause the front teeth to fit inside the lower teeth. The condition can cause the teeth to wear and function incorrectly without professional treatment.

Overbites

Note that it is normal for the upper teeth to stick out a small amount over the bottom teeth. However, problematic overbites involve the upper arch protruding over the bottom arch by at least two or four millimeters. Depending on the severity of the condition, it can result in excessive wear on the teeth, speech challenges, breathing issues, gum disease, and jaw pain.

Underbites

Underbites are the opposite of an overbite and are characterized by the lower row of teeth, particularly the front, protruding far past the front row of teeth. Left unaddressed, the condition can continue to worsen, especially if the patient is still developing. It can result in chronic bad breath, the inability to close the mouth all the way, jaw pain, difficulty in breathing, and constantly biting the inside of the mouth.

Open bites

Open bites are characterized by the front upper and bottom teeth slanting outward, preventing the teeth from closing all the way. It can result in tooth wear, problems with chewing, and speech difficulties.

Crowded teeth

When the mouth or jaws do not provide sufficient space for the teeth to erupt properly, they will cross over one another on each arch. This can result in frequent bouts of decay, wear and tear, gum disease, chronic bad breath, and jaw joint damage.

Gaps

Gaps in the teeth can occur naturally or result from previous dental work or the shifting of surrounding teeth. Depending on the location of the gap and its severity, it may not provide any functional issues. However, it can sometimes cause speech difficulties, especially if the gap is large or there are multiple gaps.