According to the experts, almost everyone has some level of malocclusion, also known as tooth misalignment. While many people are able to live with theirs, it’s important to have an evaluation because this dental issue can lead to others if left untreated.
There are several different types of malocclusion, including:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Crossbite
- Overjet
For many years, the primary solution for resolving malocclusion was traditional metal braces and, while effective, had a lot of disadvantages. In 1998, Invisalign was introduced to the market as an alternative. In this article, we’ll explain the advantages of Invisalign treatment at Smokerise Dental in Stone Mountain, Georgia.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear aligners, much like retainers. The aligners are custom-made to fit snugly against the teeth, putting pressure to shift them into their appropriate positions. The aligners can be removed for eating and for brushing/flossing teeth- but must be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day to be effective.
Benefits of Invisalign Over Braces
Invisalign offers several benefits over traditional braces, including:
Appearance
One of the primary reasons that patients choose Invisalign is because the aligners are transparent. This means that most people won’t notice them unless you mention that you are wearing them. Traditional braces are visible even from a distance.
Comfort
While there is some discomfort due to the teeth shifting in the jaw, patients do not experience the same discomfort that comes with traditional braces. Invisalign clear aligners are made from smooth plastic, which means you don’t have to worry about scratching the inside of your mouth.
Easy to brush/floss
Traditional braces make it challenging to brush/floss teeth. You must get an interdental brush to get between and around the brackets. However, Invisalign clear aligners are removable, which means you can care for your teeth just like you normally would.
No diet restrictions
If you have traditional braces, you must give up hard/chewy foods to avoid damaging the brackets and wires. However, since Invisalign clear aligners are removed while eating, diet restrictions are not necessary.
Fewer visits to the dentist
Patients with traditional braces must visit the dentist every 2 to 3 weeks to have adjustments made. This keeps pressure on the teeth to keep them moving. However, you will be given your entire system at the beginning of treatment and instructed to change them out every 1 to 3 weeks. You’ll only need to check in every 4 to 6 weeks so that we can make sure treatment is progressing as expected. If not, we can make some modifications to your treatment plan.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you have a mild to moderate malocclusion, schedule your consultation with the team at Smokerise Dental today. Malocclusion can lead to a variety of other dental issues if left untreated, including damage to tooth enamel, breathing issues, periodontal disease, TMJ, and more.
We are located at 5500 Lilburn Stone Mountain Road in Stone Mountain. Our office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Our dentists have the experience and expertise to work with patients of all ages to resolve many dental issues including malocclusion.
