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Feeling uncomfortable with gaps in your teeth? You’re not alone. Many people long for a straighter, gap-free smile but are wary of traditional metal braces. Luckily, Invisalign offers a clear, less intrusive alternative that could be the solution you’re looking for.
However, the concern in the minds of many people is whether Invisalign is a suitable option for correcting gapped teeth.
In this article, we will help you find an answer to this while also showing some more things you need to know about Invisalign so you can make an informed decision about your smile. Just keep reading!
Invisalign Offering Modern Approach to Orthodontics
Before we show you whether an Invisalign dentist can fix gapped teeth or not, let’s first consider what Invisalign is.
Invisalign is a modern shift in the field of orthodontics, offering a discreet and flexible alternative to traditional metal braces. Unlike the conventional approach that relies on brackets and wires, the treatment uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners that fit snugly over the teeth.
These aligners are virtually invisible, making the treatment process far less noticeable. Each set of aligners is worn for about two weeks before moving on to the next in the series, gradually shifting teeth into their optimal position.
One of the significant advantages of Invisalign over traditional braces is the comfort and convenience it offers. The smooth, plastic aligners are custom-fitted to the contours of your teeth, eliminating the irritation often caused by the sharp edges of metal braces.
Apart from that, Invisalign aligners can also be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, promoting better oral health throughout the treatment period.
This flexibility is particularly appealing to adults and teenagers who are concerned about the aesthetic and practical implications of metal braces.
Can Invisalign Dentist Fix My Gapped Teeth?
Interestingly, the answer is yes. An Invisalign dentist can effectively address the issue of gapped teeth. The treatment is specifically designed to handle a variety of dental alignment issues, including gaps between teeth.
By using a series of custom-fitted aligners, Invisalign gently moves your teeth into the desired position over time. Each aligner is engineered based on a plan developed by your dentist, specifically targeting gaps and aligning your teeth to enhance your smile and improve dental function.
However, the success of closing gaps with Invisalign depends on the specific conditions of your dental alignment and the size of the gaps. For minor to moderate gaps, Invisalign typically offers an excellent solution. But for larger gaps or complex dental issues, additional treatments might be necessary.
It’s important to consult with an Invisalign-certified dentist who can assess your situation with a detailed examination and provide a realistic outlook regarding what Invisalign can achieve for your smile.
What Other Issues Can the Treatment Fix?
As we already said, Invisalign is a versatile treatment and it’s capable of correcting a range of orthodontic issues beyond just gapped teeth. Let’s quickly see some of the dental problems that Invisalign can address to help you understand what to expect from the treatment.
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth. This can lead to jaw pain and wear on the lower teeth. Invisalign aligners can be designed to gradually move the upper teeth back, reducing the overbite and aligning the bite more effectively.
Underbite
In the case of underbite, the lower teeth are protruding beyond the upper teeth. This misalignment can cause difficulty chewing and speaking. Invisalign helps to move the lower teeth back while bringing the upper teeth forward, balancing the bite and improving function.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when some of the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth rather than outside. This can lead to tooth stratification and asymmetrical jaw growth. Invisalign can also address this issue.
Open Bite
An open bite is characterized by upper and lower teeth that do not touch when the mouth is closed, often due to habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. Invisalign aligners can help close an open bite by repositioning the teeth to ensure they meet properly.
Crowding
Crowded teeth occur when there is not enough space in the jaw for all of the teeth to fit normally. This situation can make it difficult to brush and floss effectively, leading to plaque accumulation and gum disease. One of the issues Invisalign is well known for correcting is the issue of teeth overcrowding.
Teeth Spacing
Similar to gapped teeth but often more extensive, spacing issues involve too much space between teeth which can also impact dental health. Invisalign aligners are used to evenly space teeth by closing the gaps, enhancing both the appearance and function of your teeth.
Things You Should Know Before Getting Invisalign
Before deciding to proceed with Invisalign treatment, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Let’s take a look at some of them.
#1: Consultation Is Key
The first step is a detailed consultation with an Invisalign-trained dentist. During this session, the dentist will assess your dental structure using digital scans and determine if Invisalign is the right choice for your specific orthodontic needs.
#2: Commitment to Wear
According to Dr. Niall Sloan, a professional Invisalign dentist in Glasgow, for optimal results, Invisalign aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day.
These aligners should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, and daily dental care. This commitment is crucial for the treatment to be effective within the projected time frame.
#3: Regular Adjustments
Invisalign requires changing aligners every one to two weeks, as each set is slightly different, progressively moving your teeth toward their final position. Regular check-ups with your dentist every six weeks are also necessary to monitor progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
#4: Potential Discomfort
While generally less painful than traditional braces, Invisalign can still cause some discomfort, especially when switching to a new set of aligners. This is usually mild and temporary as the teeth gradually adjust to their new position.
#5: Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is even more important during treatment. Brushing and flossing after every meal are essential to prevent food particles from getting trapped under the aligners, which can lead to plaque buildup and dental issues.
#6: Cost and Insurance
Invisalign can be more expensive than traditional braces, and not all dental insurance plans cover it. It’s important to check with your insurance provider and discuss payment options with your dentist.
#7: Duration of Treatment
The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case but typically ranges from 12 to 18 months. It’s very It’s important that you have realistic expectations about how long it will take to achieve the desired results.
Is Invisalign Painful?
As we have already pointed out, Invisalign is generally considered less painful than traditional metal braces, as it uses gradual pressure to shift teeth into place without the discomfort of metal brackets and wires.
However, some mild discomfort is normal, especially when you are using a new set of aligners for the first time. This sensation typically feels like pressure and usually subsides after a few days as your teeth adjust to their new positions.
Most patients find this discomfort manageable and a small price to pay for the benefits of a discreet and effective orthodontic treatment.