Patients often desire a beautiful smile that gives them confidence. When the teeth are crooked, crowded, or misaligned it can be cosmetically concerning and also cause serious oral health issues. In the past, traditional metal braces were the only option for fixing crooked teeth and achieving alignment. Enhancements in dentistry and recent technology have introduced Invisalign in the treatment of orthodontic and alignment issues.
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment which uses clear aligner trays which are made from a thin and transparent plastic material. The trays are customized for each patient to fit securely over the teeth. Patients will receive multiple sets of trays which are worn for a few weeks at a time to slowly shift the teeth into position. Invisalign can also be used to correct cases of midline misalignment.
Midline misalignment is an oral health issue which impacts the symmetry of the teeth. With midline misalignment, the centerline of the upper and lower teeth does not align. There is an imaginary line down the face which runs from the center of the forehead down to the chin. The midline or center of the teeth should also follow this line. Issues and treatments available for a misaligned midline are summarized below.
One of the most noticeable impacts of midline misalignment is the appearance of the patient’s smile.
Bite Issues
An incorrect bite is another issue commonly associated with misaligned teeth. Complications can include challenges with chewing, abnormal wear of the teeth, damage, and jaw pain.
Speech
Patients with misaligned teeth may start to develop a lisp when pronouncing certain words or find it difficult to speak clearly.
TMJ
Misaligned teeth can also cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ can cause significant jaw pain and stiffness.
Midline misalignment can be caused by various things such as a genetic predisposition, thumb sucking or pacifier use, and accidents or injuries. Misalignment can also be caused by past orthodontic treatment that failed or was not properly completed.
Invisalign is an increasingly popular orthodontic treatment which uses clear aligner trays. The trays work by gradually shifting the teeth into the desired location and can properly align the teeth. Below is a summary of the Invisalign process.
The process begins with a consultation. Potential candidates will meet with the dental professional to determine if they may benefit from Invisalign. The orthodontist or dentist will typically complete an assessment of the mouth, order x-rays, and obtain impressions of the teeth. The dental professional will use this to create a 3D model of the patient’s teeth.
This 3D model is then used to create a customized treatment plan. Treatment will include various sets of the clear aligner trays which strategically and slowly shift the teeth into alignment. The trays are replaced every few weeks and must be worn for a minimum of 20-22 hours daily. Trays are removed to clean the teeth, eat, and drink. Over time, the teeth gradually shift into the position.
Patients will make regular visits to the dentist or orthodontist during treatment to evaluate progress and adjust the plan as needed.
Patients have found that Invisalign is highly effective and has many advantages compared to traditional braces. Below are some of the top benefits of Invisalign treatment.
The aligner trays are made from a thin and transparent plastic. This means they are virtually invisible when looking at a patient’s mouth. The conspicuous treatment is especially enticing for adults.
Because the aligners are created from a smooth, flexible plastic, they are incredibly comfortable. Unlike braces, they do not cause irritation to the gums and cheeks. The gum tissue is quite delicate and is often irritated by cumbersome metal braces.
Unlike braces, the trays are not permanently secured to the teeth. Patients are instructed to remove the trays for cleaning the teeth, drinking, and eating. Invisalign allows patients to easily maintain good oral hygiene. In addition, patients do not need to have any dietary restrictions.
Midline misalignment is a relatively common dental issue which impacts adults. Fortunately, it can be corrected with Invisalign through the use of comfortable, clear aligner trays. Invisalign is a highly effective treatment which gives patients a beautiful and healthy smile that they are proud of.
If you have a misaligned midline and would like to learn more, contact us today.