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
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.
Lifestyle
Your daily habits and lifestyle also play a role in determining whether Invisalign is a good fit. If you often snack throughout the day, keep in mind that you’ll need to remove your aligners and clean your teeth each time you eat or drink anything other than water. For some people, this can be inconvenient and lead to frustration. On the hand, if you’re someone who values the ability to remove your dental appliance during special occasions or important meetings, Invisalign offers the kind of flexibility that traditional braces simply can’t match.
Invisalign Treatment in Gaithersburg, MD
Invisalign could be a fantastic solution for people who want a discreet, comfortable, and flexible way to straighten their teeth. It offers proven results for a wide range of orthodontic issues and allows you to maintain your regular hygiene routine with ease. However, it does require a high level of commitment, and it’s not ideal for every dental condition.
At TotallySmiles, we believe everyone has the right to a confident and healthy smile. If you suffer from crooked teeth or other bite problems, Invisalign may be able to help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more.