Crossbite is a dental issue that can lead to long-term problems if left untreated. It affects your bite and alignment, leading to potential wear on your teeth and jaw discomfort. Invisalign provides an effective method to treat dental conditions using discreet devices.
This article will explain how Invisalign treats crossbites, its treatment process, and the criteria for patient suitability.
What is a Crossbite?
A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth fall behind the lower teeth, causing misalignment. There are two main types:
- Anterior crossbite affects the front teeth by positioning the top teeth within the bottom teeth.
- Posterior crossbite affects the positioning of back teeth, so they do not match up properly, which leads to pain and tooth damage.
The development of crossbite results from a combination of genetic predisposition, childhood thumb-sucking practices, and jaw structural misalignments. Unmanaged crossbite can result in various severe complications, which include:
- Wear and tear on teeth
- Gum recession
- Jaw pain or discomfort
How Invisalign Works for Crossbite Correction
Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners to move your teeth into the correct position over time gently. These custom-made aligners will position your teeth for alignment while getting rid of crossbite effectively without requiring conventional braces built from metal.
Invisalign implements attachments (referred to as small tooth-colored dots) or rubber bands to enhance tooth movement in complex situations. The attachments and rubber bands are added for extra support to make the treatment successful regardless of the degree of severity of the misalignment.
Wondering how Invisalign works for a crossbite? It’s simple. When the clear aligners apply force that guides them into optimal positions, your teeth align better. With continued treatment, your bite alignment will improve until your mouth becomes stable and balanced.
Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
People with light to average degrees of crossbite should select Invisalign as their treatment option. This treatment benefits individuals at any age, starting from their teenage years. Serious cases of crossbite may cause your dentist to recommend traditional braces over other options.
Patients who have fully developed their teeth can find the best results with Invisalign treatment.
Benefits of Choosing Invisalign for Crossbite Treatment
There are several advantages to choosing Invisalign over traditional braces for crossbite treatment:
- The transparent nature of these aligners gives patients a discreet treatment option because they are barely noticeable during use.
- Because aligners can be removed, you keep them in only for eating and tooth hygiene without any trouble.
- The custom-made aligner fit provides patients with comfortable treatment while ensuring superior comfort compared to metal appliances.
How Long Does It Take to Fix a Crossbite with Invisalign?
The timeline for Invisalign treatment can vary depending on the severity of your crossbite. Regular Invisalign treatment requires 12-18 months to treat crossbite conditions although time frames might vary among individual patients.
Factors that affect the duration include:
- Severity of the crossbite
- The patient’s compliance regarding aligner wear duration
For best results, wear your aligners as recommended by your dentist.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces for Crossbite
When it comes to treating crossbite, there are differences between Invisalign and traditional braces:
- Invisalign remains nearly unnoticeable to others, but metal braces stand out.
- Invisalign aligners allow users to remove them for tooth cleaning, yet braces stay permanently on teeth.
- Invisalign provides better comfort since its aligners lack the rough edges found in metal braces.
However, traditional braces might be necessary for severe cases of crossbite that Invisalign can’t correct.
Finding the Right Invisalign Provider in Monroe, NC
When choosing Invisalign, it’s important to work with an experienced dentist. The right provider will help you achieve the best results, ensuring the aligners fit correctly and work effectively.
Our Monroe dental office specializes in providing personalized treatment plans for each patient. During your initial consultation, we’ll assess your crossbite and discuss whether Invisalign is the best option for you.
Invisalign can be a highly effective treatment for correcting crossbite, especially for mild to moderate cases. Invisalign might be the perfect solution if you’re looking for a discreet, comfortable way to straighten your teeth.
Ready to find out if Invisalign can fix your crossbite? Book a consultation with Monroe Family Dentistry today to see if Invisalign is right for you! Request an appointment now!
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