Orthodontic Issues Invisalign Can Treat

Invisalign is a popular option for orthodontic treatments in Monroe, NY for correcting misaligned teeth. The clear plastic aligners from Invisalign has helped over five million orthodontic patients around the world help fix crooked teeth, crowding, overbites and other malocclusion conditions. 

Schedule your no-obligation Invisalign consultation with Dr. Jacquie Smiles in Monroe, NY, today
by calling 845-782-4288 or filling out the contact form to receive additional information. 

The following issues can be treated by Invisalign in some patients:

Crooked Teeth

If you are looking to straighten your crooked teeth, Invisalign is an option.

Overbite

An overbite (when the upper teeth close too far in front of the bottom teeth) can make it difficult to chew and bite into some foods. In some cases, Invisalign can be used to move teeth so that the top and bottom teeth align properly when your mouth is closed.

Underbite

An underbite (when the bottom teeth are in front of the upper teeth) can cause your teeth to wear more quickly and create difficulties with speech. Invisalign can be used to move the lower teeth back so they naturally sit behind the front teeth.  

Crossbite

A crossbite is when some upper teeth sit inside lower teeth rather than outside. It may cause your teeth to chip and wear down and even cause gums to recede. Invisalign can be used to move incorrectly positioned teeth into the right place and treat a crossbite.

Gaps 

If you have a gap between two or more teeth, you have a spacing issue. This condition has a problem with food getting caught between teeth and gums and may cause gum disease. Invisalign can close the gaps to create a healthier mouth and a more aesthetic smile. However, there are some limitations to how much space needs to be closed. 

Open Bite

Invisalign can fix an open bite. This is when the upper and lower teeth don’t meet. Invisalign corrects this misalignment by moving upper and lower teeth into position so they close correctly.

Crowded Teeth

When there is not enough room in the jaw to accommodate all of your teeth, they can overlap and twist, this is known as crowding. Invisalign may correct some cases of crowded teeth, depending on the severity and complexity of the problem.

Tips for Wearing Your Invisalign Aligners During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is here and it’s time to start getting ready for all the office parties, family gatherings, and get-togethers with friends. Eating, drinking, and socializing can be a lot of fun, but they also tend to get us out of our normal health and oral care routines. 

People who use Invisalign to straighten their teeth often like the fact that it’s nearly invisible and removable. 

The following information will guide you through the holidays and help you stay on track with your teeth straightening treatment with Invisalign aligners.

WEAR YOUR ALIGNERS 20 TO 22 HOURS DAILY

According to the American Dental Association, Invisalign aligners need to be worn 20 to 22 hours per day. The rush of the holidays can cause you to forget to wear them, so it’s best to set a reminder on your cell phone to ensure you wear them at the recommended time per day. Neglecting to wear your aligners will interfere with your teeth straightening treatment and can lead to discomfort and pain further along in the process.

CARRY THE ALIGNERS STORAGE CASE WITH YOU

A common mistake many people make is putting their clear aligners in a napkin and setting it on the table while eating a meal. The napkin often gets picked up and thrown in the trash by mistake. This simple error causes a delay in treatment. You can prevent this from happening by carrying the aligners storage case with you at all times and using it every time you remove your aligners.

BRUSH AND FLOSS AFTER EVERY MEAL AND SNACK

You need to brush and floss after every meal to remove the small food particles that get stuck between your teeth. This tiny debris can lead to odor, bacteria growth, and tooth decay. You will be attending holiday parties and events where you will be eating and drinking festive foods. It’s essential that you carry a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss with you at all times. An excellent tip is to also carry a travel-size mouthwash to assure your mouth is completely clean before placing your aligners back into your mouth.

ALWAYS REMOVE YOUR ALIGNERS TO PREVENT DISCOMFORT

It might seem like a good idea to take a few sips of your favorite hot beverage without removing your aligners, but it’s a big mistake. As soon as the hot liquid touches the aligners, it damages the structure and can interfere with your treatment. The aligners can slightly bend out of shape causing your teeth to move in the wrong direction. This can lead to pain when you switch your aligners to the next stage because your teeth are not in place or prepared for the next step. Always remove your aligners every time you eat and drink.

Enjoy your holidays but also remember your teeth straightening treatment can’t get interrupted. Create a regimen that allows you to follow the instructions in this guide and keeps you on track with your treatment.

Dr. Jacquie Smiles began her career in orthodontics dentistry at Boston University and became the first female Director of B.U.’s Predoctoral Orthodontic Department. Since then she has become an expert in orthodontics and opened several offices in New York and New Jersey.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT  

Contact us today for your no-obligation teeth straightening appointment in Monroe, NY. Please call 845-782-4288 or fill out the contact form to receive more information. Our office is conveniently located near 70 Gilbert Street, Suite 202 Monroe, NY 10950.