When Invisalign emerged, it transformed orthodontics. So, what can Invisalign fix?
Straighten Up
Since its introduction, Invisalign has continued to evolve, creating increasingly effective ways of treating a variety of problems. For many teenagers, the thought of having to wear braces is tantamount to running down the street naked. Metal braces are very noticeable which is one of the reasons why Invisalign has proven so popular among teens and adults alike.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a new system of straightening teeth that uses nearly invisible, removable aligners. Made from a specific material designed to be comfortable in the mouth, Invisalign aligners can be removed during mealtimes and for cleaning purposes, making them much easier to care for than traditional braces.
What Can Invisalign Fix?
Like braces, Invisalign can fix most issues relating to crooked teeth, including mild overcrowding, underbites and overbites. The latest Invisalign Teen has been specifically developed to suit teenagers’ mouth and their lifestyles. This unique treatment means orthodontists can start straightening the front adult teeth before all the baby teeth have fallen out, although you should speak to Dr Peter Miles at Newwave Orthodontists to find out the best time for treatment.
What Can Invisalign Not Fix?
In severe cases, a more advanced approach to correction is required. In these instances, Invisalign doesn’t have the versatility to meet the orthodontist’s requirements. Below are a few examples of problems that Invisalign doesn’t offer an effective solution for:
- Severe rotation or tipping: This is where the teeth have rotated or tipped more than 20 degrees from their correct position, Dr Peter Miles might recommend metal braces.
- Widely spaced or overcrowded teeth: Depending on the severity of the issue, Invisalign can assist with the problem but, should the gaps between the teeth be unusually large, or an additional 6mm or more are required to give the existing teeth the room they need, an alternative treatment to Invisalign might be required.
Benefits of Invisalign
The most recent development in Invisalign has been the introduction of a mandibular advancement feature. This has been developed to help treat the most common misalignments in teenagers. Designed to be used in instances where the front teeth are fully developed but there are still some baby teeth on the sides. This new design can improve the look of the front teeth and then, as the baby teeth fall out, the full Invisalign treatment can be used to complete the process.
Cutting Edge: Invisalign Teen
Invisalign Teen has all the advantages of the normal Invisalign treatment, including being easy to put in and take out and being virtually invisible. In addition to these features, Invisalign Teen incorporates precision wings that focus on moving the mandible into a forward position, thus correcting misalignment and overcrowding. There are three distinct stages to the Invisalign Teen treatment:
Pre-mandibular advancement phase
Small adjustments are made to individual teeth to accommodate the precision wings.
Mandibular advancement phase
The precision wings are introduced to correct the misaligned jaw.
Standard Invisalign treatment
The final touch-ups complete your new smile.
When is the best time to get Invisalign?
Deciding on the best time to treat your or your child’s teeth isn’t easy and there are many different factors to take into consideration. For example, neither you nor your child want to spend any more time at the orthodontist than is completely necessary, so knowing which treatments require the least maintenance may help you make a decision.
Whatever you do, however, we suggest to get the advice of Dr Peter Miles to ensure the most effective treatment is used at the most valuable stage of yours or your child’s development. Make an appointment at Newwave Orthodontists today to find if you or your child are eligible for Invisalign!
