When our teeth are out of alignment, it’s often more than just our smile that’s affected. Malocclusion can lead to worsening dental problems and increases the risk of suffering tooth fractures or chips. While there are plenty of orthodontic options available, many patients prefer the discreet treatment provided by Invisalign in Gaithersburg, MD. However, Invisalign may not be the best treatment for every patient. After examining your bite and discussing your cosmetic goals, your dentist can help determine if Invisalign is right for you.
Factors to Consider when Seeking Invisalign in Gaithersburg, MD
Everyone’s mouth is different. And no two patients can expect the same results from the same treatment. While Invisalign can help many people straighten their teeth, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for misalignment. When you talk to your dentist about adjusting your smile, they’ll perform an exam to check the state of your bite and the health of your mouth. Depending on the results, Invisalign may not be recommended.
Complexity of Case
Invisalign works best for patients who have mild to moderate orthodontic cases. If you have excessive crowding or large gaps between your teeth, Invisalign may not be able to provide the results you want. Severe cases of malocclusion can often have unexpected results when shifting your teeth around. With Invisalign, you get all of your clear aligner trays ahead of time. This means there’s no room for adjustments as treatment goes on. If you have a complex case, your dentist may recommend a more traditional approach to orthodontics that can allow for changes as needed.
Oral Health
Patients with poor oral health may not have a positive experience when using Invisalign. Dental decay and damage can cause the teeth to weaken, potentially leading to worsening conditions. If you have gum disease, attempting to shift the teeth can cause pain and discomfort. For some cases of poor oral health, you may still be able to get Invisalign after receiving other treatment.
Previous Restorations
If you have had previous dental work done, it could affect your success with Invisalign. Patients with dental crowns, bridges, or implants can often run into difficulties when using Invisalign. Restorative treatment is designed to be durable, sturdy, and permanent. If you try to straighten your teeth using Invisalign, your previous restorations could suffer damage or cause pain. While not every patient with a dental history is excluded from Invisalign treatment, your dentist may recommend traditional braces to help protect and preserve your restorations.
Patient Responsibility
Invisalign is so popular because patients can remove the trays to eat and drink with fewer restrictions. However, this also means that patients must be responsible for brushing their teeth after meals and putting their aligners back in. Invisalign is often not recommended for patients who may struggle with this responsibility or who may have difficulty cleaning their teeth regularly.
If you want to improve your smile and protect your teeth, Invisalign may be the answer. Call Totally Smiles today at 301-701-5861 to schedule a consultation and see if you could benefit from Invisalign treatment.