If your teeth are crooked, crowded or otherwise misaligned, this could affect more than just your appearance. Orthodontic issues can cause a number of problems, including difficulties with eating and speech and increasing your oral health risks.
You're never too old to benefit from teeth straightening treatments, but many people don't like the idea of wearing braces as an adult. Fortunately, there are now alternatives such as Invisalign® clear aligners that can help to straighten your smile more discreetly and conveniently.
How do clear aligners work?
Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom made aligners that are designed to fit comfortably over your teeth. Like traditional braces, these transparent aligners apply gentle pressure to teeth that will gradually shift their position over time.
Your Invisalign dentist will take digital images of your mouth and create 3D computer models of your bite that will be used to plan out your treatment. Each set of aligners should be worn for several weeks before being replaced with the next set.
Teeth straightening with Invisalign can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months on average, depending on how much movement is needed. For the best results, it's important to wear your aligners as much as possible, only taking them out when you eat, brush and floss.
Am I a candidate for Invisalign treatment?
Invisalign treatment can address many of the same issues as braces, but with some limitations. Your dentist will need to complete an orthodontic assessment to determine whether Invisalign is suitable for you or if you could benefit from a different treatment.
Invisalign can be an effective option for adults and teenagers with common orthodontic issues such as:
- overbite
- open bite
- crooked teeth
- crowded teeth
- gapped teeth
If you have a more complex issue, such as underbite or crossbite, you may still be a candidate for Invisalign treatment. This depends on the individual case and the experience of your dentist.
Before starting any orthodontic treatment, your teeth and gums should be healthy and free from problems such as tooth decay and gum disease, as these can affect your results.
What if I'm not suitable for Invisalign?
If you have more severely crooked teeth or a more complex case, teeth straightening with braces may be more effective and predictable than Invisalign treatment.
Today, there are different options for braces if you want something less noticeable than metal braces. These include ceramic braces, which can be matched to your natural tooth colour, and lingual braces, which attach behind the teeth out of sight.
If you only need minor teeth straightening or other corrections, this may be achieved using dental veneers fitted over the front of your teeth.
Talk to your dentist to find out what all of your options are so you can make an informed decision about what's best for you.
Book an Invisalign® consultation in Bracken Ridge
If you want to know more about Invisalign clear aligners and other teeth straightening options, contact our friendly team at Bracken Ridge Dental to book a free orthodontic consultation.
Call us today on (07) 3261 2405 or book online to take the first step towards a straighter smile.
By: Bracken Ridge Dental