You’ve probably heard of Invisalign — the clear alternative to braces that has taken the orthodontic world by storm. But can these aligners be used to treat both the top and bottom teeth? Here at Dr. Scott Runnels Orthodontics in Destin, FL, we’re proud to offer this treatment option to our patients. Invisalign has been proven to be an effective way to straighten teeth, and it’s a more discreet option than traditional braces.
Can You Use Invisalign for Both Upper and Lower Teeth?
One of the great things about these aligners is that they can be used to correct a wide range of orthodontic issues. Whether your teeth are crowded, gapped, or shifted, these aligners can help. And because the aligners can be used for both upper and lower teeth, it’s a great option for people who have issues with both their top and bottom teeth.
If you’re thinking about getting aligners, the first step is to schedule a consultation with us. During your consultation, we will assess your individual case and let you know if the treatment is right for you. If so, we’ll take impressions of your teeth and create a treatment plan specifically for you.
3D Invisalign Impressions
3D impressions are digital representations of your teeth that are used to create your custom aligners. In the past, traditional dental impressions had to be taken using putty molds which could be uncomfortable and messy. But with 3D technology, all it takes is a quick scan of your mouth using a handheld scanner.
The scanner collects data points which are then used to generate a 3D model of your teeth. This model is then sent off to the lab where your aligners will be fabricated.
Are 3D Impressions More Accurate Than Traditional Dental Impressions?
Yes! With traditional dental impressions, there is always the potential for human error when taking the impression or translating it into a 3D model. But with 3D technology, the entire process is automated so there is no room for error. This means that your aligners will fit more snugly and comfortable from the start
What Are the Benefits of Getting Your Impressions Done Using 3D Technology?
In addition to being more accurate, 3D impressions also allow you to see a preview of what your new smile will look like before you even begin treatment! Your dentist can show you a digital simulation of how your teeth will move over the course of treatment so you can get an idea of what to expect.
Aligners for Adults
As an adult, you may think that it’s too late for you to get braces. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth! Thanks to clear aligners, more and more adults are getting the straighter teeth they’ve always wanted.
Aligners for Teens
As your child goes through puberty, they are likely to become more self-conscious about their appearance. This is perfectly normal. However, if your child has misaligned teeth, they may be especially self-conscious about their smile. This can lead to social anxiety and depression. In fact, studies have shown that people with straight teeth are perceived as being more likely to be successful and intelligent than those with crooked teeth.
If your child has misaligned teeth, you should definitely consider this clear alternative. It is more comfortable than braces, practically invisible when worn, and much quicker than traditional braces treatment.
Treatment FAQs:
How Long Will Treatment Take To Complete?
There are a number of factors that can affect the length of your treatment, including the severity of your misalignment, your age, and whether you have had previous orthodontic treatment. In general, the older you are, the longer it will take to complete treatment. This is because bones tend to be harder and more set in place as we age.
Overall, most people can expect to finish their treatment within 6-15 months. However, every case is different. We’ll be able to give you a more accurate estimate during your consultation.
How Often Should I Change Aligners?
In most cases, you will need to change your aligners every two weeks. This is because your teeth will continue to shift during this time, and the aligners need to be able to apply the appropriate amount of pressure to continue moving your teeth.
However, if you have any concerns about whether or not you are ready for a new set of aligners, you should always contact us. We will be able to help you determine if the aligners are still working effectively or if it is time for a new set.
How Many Hours Should I Wear Aligners?
The recommended number of hours to wear your aligners is 20-22 hours per day. This will help to ensure that your treatment is as effective as possible. Of course, there will be times when it is not possible to wear the aligners for the full recommended duration. However, it is essential to try to wear them for as long as possible each day in order to avoid lengthening treatment time.
The aligners should be removed only for eating and drinking as well as for brushing and flossing. You should also take them out for any activities that could damage the aligners, such as contact sports. With proper care and maintenance, your aligners will help you achieve a straighter smile sooner than expected!
Will People Be Able To Tell That I’m Wearing Aligners?
Clear aligners are made from a smooth, comfortable medical-grade plastic that is nearly invisible when worn. They are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth and are designed to be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Many people wear aligners without anyone noticing.
However, some people may be able to tell that you are wearing them if they look closely. The good news is that the aligners can be taken out for special occasions so that you don’t have to worry about them being noticed on your big day.
Will My Speech Be Affected by Wearing Clear Aligners?
Unlike traditional braces that can cause difficulty speaking, clear aligners are made from very thin plastic, so they should not have any significant impact on your speech. However, some people find that they produce a slight lisp when they first start wearing them. This is usually due to the fact that the aligners sit slightly forward on the teeth, causing the tongue to interact with them differently than it does with natural teeth.
However, this effect is typically temporary and goes away after a few days or weeks of adjustment. Don’t worry — in most cases, you’ll hardly even notice a difference.
What Conditions Does Invisalign Treat?
Overbite
An overbite is when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth too much. This can happen due to genetics, bad habits (like thumb sucking), or incorrectly aligned jaws. Whatever the cause, an overbite can lead to a number of problems, including pain in the jaw and difficulty chewing or speaking.
Underbite
An underbite is when the lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth. This, too, can happen due to genetics, bad habits, or incorrectly aligned jaws. An underbite can cause problems with eating and speaking and can even lead to gum disease or tooth loss.
Crossbite
A crossbite is when the upper and lower teeth don’t meet correctly when you bite down, which can cause wear on the teeth and gums and bone loss in the jawbone over time if left untreated. Aligners work by moving your teeth into their proper position so that they line up correctly when you bite down, thus eliminating the issue of a crossbite altogether.
Gapped Teeth
This condition is exactly what it sounds like — there are spaces between your teeth where there shouldn’t be any. Clear aligners can help close those gaps by gradually pushing your teeth closer together.
Crowded Teeth
Having crowded teeth means that there isn’t enough room in your mouth for all of your adult teeth. This can cause them to become crooked or overlap each other in undesirable ways. This condition is usually caused by genetics but may also be caused by anything from pacifier use to failure to remove milk teeth. The aligners will help create more room in your mouth for all of your pearly whites.
Transform Your Smile Today!
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. And because they’re nearly invisible, nobody will even know you’re wearing them! The aligners are also comfortable, and they can be used for both upper and lower teeth. Contact us today at Dr. Scott Runnels Orthodontics in Destin, FL to schedule your consultation.