Invisalign is one of the best orthodontic treatment alternatives that many patients reach for when looking for a discreet way to improve their smile.
This method of bite correction uses customized aligners in weekly and biweekly rounds to gently adjust the position of the teeth until the desired position is achieved. These plates are intended to be fitted at one to two week intervals, then replaced with a new, adjusted tray, then moved the bite a little more in the right direction.
Invisalign is a system for modern adults on the go, but some patients may not be good candidates for clear aligners. Tooth straightening with clear aligners depends on several factors, including age, the severity of the malocclusion, and the presence of other problems such as overbite.
Who is the Ideal Candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign was invented for patients with mild to moderate bite problems. This does not mean that everyone who receives Invisalign treatment should be within this specific range of people, but the system was definitely built with this group in mind.
Ideal Age Group for Invisalign
Invisalign is often used specifically for teens and adults, and with good reason. The jawbone is soft as a child and its development does not stop until early adulthood. Even if all the adult teeth have erupted, the jaw still needs to be developed. Invisalign can move the teeth, but if positioning is necessary, it has little effect on the jaw.
However, teenagers often prefer this method of tooth straightening as it is common sense. Those who choose the Invisalign system need not worry about the way their smiles look or how they look good in photos. Some adults may even turn to Invisalign for dental correction treatment after wearing braces as a child, to correct smaller problems that occur after long periods of not wearing braces.
Mild to Moderate Biting Problems
Invisalign is best for those with mild to moderate bite problems. More serious malocclusion problems will need to be treated with conventional braces as they have the ability to put more pressure on teeth that need serious correction. Invisalign is for adjusting several teeth at a time.
Overbite, Underbite and Crossbite (Overbite, Underbite, and Crossbite)
A slight overbite, underbite, or crossbite can be corrected with Invisalign, but more severe cases of chin correction will need to be tackled using conventional braces.
Chin Correction
Those who need serious jaw correction will need to use braces. Invisalign does not have the ligatures and brackets required to treat with elastics. Sometimes orthodontic treatment involves moving the jaw forward, backward, or to both sides to bring the bite into an ideal position. Braces are the best option when rubber bands are needed to change jaw position.
Are You a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign is an excellent option for many patients. Talk to a qualified orthodontist to find out if this popular method of tooth straightening is right for you.
