If you want to correct a problem with your bite but don’t want traditional braces, talk to your dentist or orthodontist to find out if you're eligible for Invisalign®.
This orthodontic treatment uses removable aligners made from transparent plastic, rather than fixed brackets, bands and wires. This makes them a less visible option than the metal braces you’re probably used to seeing. It was designed specifically for adults and older teens who may want their treatment to be less noticeable and can treat most mild to moderate orthodontic conditions
To find out whether you're suitable for Invisalign®, book a free consultation at Face Value Dental today.
Why your bite matters
If your teeth are misaligned (malocclusion), this can affect your ability to eat, talk or even breathe. It can also cause your teeth to wear down over time or put them under pressure, leading to further complications.[1]
Malocclusion falls into three general categories:
- Overbite – when your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth. A small degree of overbite is common, but a more pronounced overbite can cause teeth wear and pain in your jaw (TMJ).
- Underbite – when your lower front teeth and jaw are in front of your upper front teeth. This can cause difficulty with chewing and speech and is usually due to the lower jaw sitting too far forward.
- Crossbite – when one or more of your teeth are closer to the tongue than their corresponding teeth, or you have a lateral misalignment of the arches. This can lead to teeth wear, gum problems or bone loss in the jaw.
When you visit your dentist or orthodontist for an orthodontic assessment, they'll recommend treatment options to help bring your teeth and jaws into line.
Is Invisalign® suitable for you?
Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® are appealing options for many adults and teenagers who want a more discreet treatment than braces. But these treatments aren't suitable for everyone.
Generally, Invisalign® can correct most overbites, mild to moderate underbites and some crossbites. Crossbites can be more complex, and suitable treatment will depend on the individual case.
As Invisalign® aligners put less force on your teeth than fixed braces, they're best suited to correcting mild or moderate bite problems. If you have a more severe orthodontic issue, your dentist may recommend other discreet options such as tooth-coloured braces or lingual braces fitted to the back of the teeth.
How does Invisalign® work?
If you decide Invisalign® treatment is right for you, your dentist or orthodontist will take an impression of your teeth, which is then used to create your custom aligners. These will be replaced with a new set every few weeks. They’re designed to exert gentle force on your teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position over the course of your treatment.
Your aligners should be worn as much as possible through the day and night, but they can be taken out when you clean your teeth or eat food. The length of Invisalign® treatment depends on the individual but is usually around 12 months. Once the treatment is complete, you'll probably have to wear a retainer for a period to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their old position.
Schedule your free Invisalign® consultation in Brisbane CBD
If you want to know more about Invisalign® treatment, book a free consultation appointment with our Brisbane dentist Dr Adam Alford at Face Value Dental. We'll explain exactly what the treatment involves and answer all your questions so you can make an informed decision.
Call us today on (07 3221 0677 or get in touch online.
[1] US National Library of Medicine. Medline Plus. Malocclusion of teeth [Online] 2018 Accessed March 2018] Available from www.medlineplus.gov