One of the major oral health problems that patients of all ages may experience at some point in their life is malocclusion. This misalignment of the teeth can be the result of any number of factors, and those with malocclusion should immediately seek out professional dental treatments as quickly as possible to not only improve their smile, but avoid other painful and life-altering side effects. This is why many individuals have now turned to the Invisalign aligners system to realign their smile without the use of conventional metal braces. Here is a look at the advantages of the Invisalign system and who will make a good candidate for these nearly-invisible trays.
Malocclusion can happen to any individual at any point in their life. Once the permanent teeth have come in, there are quite a few factors that could result in gaps in one's smile or teeth that have shifted from their natural position. Some of the most common causes of malocclusion include genetics, oral health problems in a child's first few years, impacted teeth, atrophying jaws, and severe gum disease.
When this condition is not treated as quickly as possible, the individual will be at an increased risk for side effects that may result in irreversible damage to the mouth, face, and neck. Patients with larger gaps or a misaligned smile will often have an uneven bite pattern that will put excessive wear and tear on certain teeth. In turn, this could lead to tooth fractures, chips, and TMJ disorders. Luckily, Invisalign aligners can be used to quickly and permanently realign a patient's smile without the need to wear metal braces.
The dentist begins this process by taking very accurate measurements of the patient's upper and lower teeth and then sending these specifications off to a specialty manufacturer. The manufacturer will then create a series of trays that can be swapped out every two weeks. During this period, the patient will not be required to make bi-monthly visits to the dentist to have adjustments made to these dental appliances. Rather, they can simply open up the new package of trays to replace their previous pair.
The transition to a straight smile will begin in as little as a few months and most individuals will be required to wear these devices from 9 months to 2 years. For younger patients or patients with more sever malocclusion, the dentist may suggest the use of braces as an alternative to Invisalign aligners or previous to the Invisalign treatment.
Along with a straight and complete smile, individuals can take these trays out to enjoy all of their favorite foods and keep up with their daily brushing and flossing. Individuals that would like to enjoy the appearance and health benefits of aligned teeth should contact their dentist about this popular treatment option.
Our Northridge Invisalign provider at Northridge Dental Group can examine your teeth and determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment.