The health and aesthetics of your smile play a role in your overall well-being. Although there are many treatment options available today for orthodontic work, Invisalign remains one of the most popular and innovative solutions.
At Runnels Orthodontics, we help many clients start Invisalign treatment to address a variety of dental and cosmetic concerns. So what is Invisalign, and what dental conditions can this incredible technology address? Let’s find out.
Invisalign treatment is an alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, plastic, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth so that they’re in the correct alignment by the end of treatment.
Invisalign aligners are custom-made per patient. We use advanced 3D imaging technology to ensure they fit snugly over your teeth throughout treatment. Invisalign aligners are not only effective but nearly invisible as well!
There are some notable differences when you’re considering whether to move forward with Invisalign vs. braces for your orthodontic treatment. Traditional braces use ceramic or metal brackets and wires to apply force to your teeth to get them into alignment. Braces are visually noticeable and permanently on your teeth until removed by your orthodontist.
Invisalign does the same thing braces do, but they are clear and removable, which can provide a more aesthetic and flexible option. One key difference between Invisalign and braces is that you remove your Invisalign aligners when:
It’s generally easier to have better oral hygiene with Invisalign since the aligners are removable and give you better access to your teeth. Additionally, you don’t have to avoid specific foods with Invisalign like you do with braces since you remove your aligners while you eat. Ultimately, the choice between Invisalign vs. braces depends on your dental conditions and personal preferences.
If you have crowded teeth, it means there is not a sufficient amount of space in your mouth for all of your teeth to fit properly. Crowded teeth can lead to:
Invisalign treatment can effectively fix crowded teeth by gradually moving them into proper alignment, which can enhance your oral health while providing a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
An overbite is when the upper teeth protrude out over the lower teeth. This condition is typically caused by:
Overbites can lead to gum problems, uneven rubbing on your lower teeth, and even painful issues in your jaw and mouth joint area. Invisalign rectifies overbites by shifting your upper teeth back into alignment with your lower teeth.
An underbite occurs when the lower teeth bite out past your front teeth. This is typically the result of an overgrowth of your lower jaw, underdevelopment of your upper jaw, or a combination of both.
Underbites prevent the proper functioning of your front teeth or molars and can also lead to advanced, uneven tooth wear. Invisalign helps move your lower teeth back toward the upper teeth, which ultimately helps correct an underbite.
An open bite is when some of your teeth aren’t able to touch the opposing teeth. For example, when you bite down, your top teeth should rest properly on and over your bottom teeth. With an open bite, the top teeth and bottom teeth at the front of your mouth are not able to connect properly.
Open bites can cause:
Invisalign can help rectify the misalignment of your jaw, thereby eliminating an open bite and improving your bite function.
Gap teeth or other teeth spacing issues occur when there is extra space between your teeth. This can lead to gum problems because there’s reduced protection by your teeth. Gap teeth can also affect the appearance of your smile. Invisalign addresses gaps by moving your teeth closer together, which enhances not only aesthetics but also your dental health.
Results with Invisalign can be quite impressive. Invisalign fixes a variety of dental conditions while improving oral health, providing you with a straighter and healthier smile.
The effectiveness of Invisalign treatment depends largely on your commitment to wearing the aligners as directed. The duration of Invisalign treatment varies from patient to patient. Most individuals complete their Invisalign treatment within 12 to 18 months, although some cases are shorter or longer.
During treatment, you must wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Remove them to eat, brush, and floss, but put them back on as soon as you finish those activities.
Invisalign offers a less noticeable and more comfortable and flexible solution when compared to traditional braces. Invisalign can address common dental conditions like crowded teeth and bite issues, but each case is unique. Some severe cases may require alternative treatments where Invisalign isn’t an option.
Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign has transformed traditional orthodontic treatment by offering a functional and discreet solution. But remember that when it comes to achieving proper and timely results with Invisalign, your compliance with the treatment guidelines is key. The more consistently you wear your aligners, the more effective your treatment will be.
For Invisalign treatment in Destin, FL, contact our team of orthodontists at Runnels Orthodontics. Whether you have mild misalignment or more complex orthodontic issues, Dr. Runnels will tailor a treatment plan specifically for you, ensuring optimal comfort and convenience throughout the process. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards transforming your smile with Invisalign.
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