Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment designed to straighten the teeth and align the bite. It provides an alternative to braces with clear plastic retainer-like trays that fit over the teeth to gently shift them into proper alignment. Many patients are choosing Invisalign for the comfort, convenience, and discretion of this method.
Invisalign can treat many common orthodontic conditions, but can it fix an overbite? Find out what Invisalign can do for you.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign straightens your teeth using a series of plastic aligners that fit over the teeth. These aligners are clear and fit snugly to your teeth, making them virtually invisible. Each aligner is slightly different from the next in order to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. You wear each aligner for about 1 week before switching to the next. Once you have worn all of your aligners your teeth will ideally be in proper alignment.
What Can Invisalign Treat?
Invisalign is capable of treating most common orthodontic conditions including crooked teeth, crowding, gaps between teeth, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. Invisalign is sometimes seen as a cosmetic treatment, and although it can make your smile look better, the primary purpose is to align the teeth and bite for better overall dental health.
Why Is Overbite a Problem?
Overbite is one of the most common bite misalignments, meaning that your top teeth extend too far over your bottom teeth when you bite down. When an overbite goes untreated, it can cause the teeth to wear down prematurely, resulting in tooth decay. Overbite can also cause headaches from excess pressure when the teeth meet together. In some cases the bottom teeth may even wear away the gum tissue on the back of the top front teeth.
Who is a Candidate for Invisalign?
Patients with mild to moderate orthodontic conditions may be candidates for Invisalign. Patients who may not be eligible for Invisalign are those with severe orthodontic conditions, such as teeth that are rotated more than 20 degrees from the desired position. Invisalign is also not capable of raising or lowering the position of teeth vertically in the jaw. It can only move them horizontally to the left or right.
Is Invisalign Right For Me?
If you’re interested in Invisalign, the only way to know for sure if you’re an ideal candidate is to get an evaluation from an Invisalign provider. After assessing your teeth and taking digital images, your provider can offer a recommendation for treatment. There are some situations where braces would be more effective at correcting the orthodontic issues that are present.
What is the Procedure for Invisalign Treatment?
Here is the step by step process for getting Invisalign:
- Consultation. The first step in any type of treatment is always a consultation. We will discuss what the treatment entails and you can determine if it is something you would like to try.
- Evaluation. The next step is an evaluation to determine whether or not Invisalign treatment would be effective in your situation.
- Imaging. If your evaluation shows that you are a candidate for Invisalign, we will take digital images and a scan of your teeth to determine what adjustments need to be made.
- Designing your treatment. The images and scan are entered into Invisalign computer software which is used to design your individual treatment plan that will shift your teeth into proper alignment.
- Creating your aligners. Your aligners are made in an Invisalign lab and shipped back to your dentist for fitting.
- Wearing your aligners. You will need to wear your aligners according to your dentist’s instructions, usually about 1 week each. Your dentist will monitor your progress periodically and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment as you go.
- Retention. When the process is complete your teeth should be in proper alignment. The final step is retention to keep your teeth in their new position. You’ll wear retainers full-time for about 3 months until the teeth settle into their new spots. Then you should plan on wearing your retainers when you sleep for as long as you want your teeth to stay straight.
Where Can I Get Invisalign?
Many dental offices are now offering Invisalign, giving you the opportunity to receive orthodontic treatment without a referral to a separate orthodontist’s office. Creekview Dental is a silver rated certified Invisalign provider, meaning we’ve treated numerous patients successfully with Invisalign.
Call 651-738-8204 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
