Are There Limitations to Invisalign Treatment?

For many patients, Invisalign® makes sense to revive their smiles and straighten crooked teeth. These clear aligners are effective at doing this and have other benefits that you will enjoy. However, there are some situations that aligners do not address as well. If you are concerned about how to take care of your needs, speak with your dentist. Another solution may be right for you to achieve your goals.

What Invisalign can do

It is first helpful to understand what these clear aligners are capable of. Teens and adults alike can find success in getting new smiles with these plastic trays. The aligners can straighten teeth faster than metal braces can. Also, this treatment can correct bite dysfunctions such as crossbites, overbites, and underbites. Choosing aligners is the right decision to address an open bite condition where the top teeth and bottom teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed. Patients with a crowded mouth should also consider Invisalign.

Clear aligners do not work with some types of dental work

Patients with bridges should be aware that Invisalign treatment will not be the right choice. It is also difficult for the aligners to bond to the surfaces of porcelain veneers. The same is true with some types of crowns. Aligners are most effective for patients who have not had any of this restorative care.

Large gaps in the mouth

Invisalign can help patients who have spaces in their mouth. This condition can be embarrassing and readily noticeable to other people. The aligners can close these spaces when the gaps are small. However, if the spaces between two teeth exceed 6 millimeters, aligners are not the right solution. This might be a good task for traditional metal braces.

Misshapen teeth

Some patients may have straight teeth but do not like the shape. Teeth can be abnormally rounded, pegged, or pointy. Some may be unusually large or small. It is difficult for Invisalign trays to correct these issues. The appliances may not fit over the teeth. Plus, getting them into the right position might be impossible for this treatment.

Jaw position

Some patients need help moving teeth, but others have more significant problems. The jaw position can cause a host of challenges, both for the person’s oral health and cosmetically. Moving the jaw is usually a good job for metal braces. Invisalign is not often up to the challenge, especially for moving the teeth in the back. Aligners will not deliver the same amount of force to create this type of movement.

Making the right choice

It can be difficult deciding what teeth-straightening method will help you achieve the results you want. Invisalign has many benefits and advantages over other treatments such as braces. However, if you are concerned about what the aligners cannot do, talk to your dentist today. Your dentist will examine you and evaluate your condition. You can then have an honest discussion about which way to go for improving your appearance and getting the smile that you desire.

Request an appointment here: https://smilesdental.com or call Smiles Dental Care at (650) 563-1180 for an appointment in our Mountain View office.

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