If you like the idea of straightening your teeth without traditional fixed braces, you may be wondering: am I suitable for Invisalign?
Invisalign clear aligners can be used to treat a range of orthodontic concerns, but they aren’t automatically the right solution for every patient. Your suitability depends on factors including the position of your teeth, your bite, your oral health and the complexity of the movements required.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom-made clear aligners designed to gradually move your teeth towards their planned positions. Unlike traditional braces, there are no conventional brackets and wires.
The aligners are removable, although they need to be worn consistently according to your treatment plan. Invisalign Australia advises that aligners are typically worn for around 20–22 hours per day.
What dental problems may Invisalign help with?
Invisalign treatment can potentially be used for a range of orthodontic concerns, including crowded teeth, gaps or spacing, certain overbites, certain underbites, crossbites, open bites and generally straighter alignment of the teeth.
However, having one of these concerns doesn’t automatically mean Invisalign will be suitable. The severity and complexity of your particular case needs to be assessed.
Can Invisalign help crowded teeth?
It may. Crowding occurs when there isn’t sufficient space for the teeth to sit in their desired positions. A dentist needs to assess your smile before recommending treatment.
Can Invisalign close gaps between teeth?
Invisalign may be an option for some patients with spaces between their teeth. Different underlying factors can contribute to spacing, so your dentist should assess your teeth and gums before determining the appropriate approach.
Can Invisalign fix an overbite?
Invisalign can potentially be used to treat certain bite concerns, including some overbites. Bite correction can be more complex than simply straightening visible front teeth, so professional assessment is important.
Are some cases too complex for Invisalign?
Potentially. Clear aligner technology has developed considerably and Invisalign can be used in a wide range of cases. However, there are circumstances where another orthodontic approach may be more appropriate.
Does my oral health matter before Invisalign?
Yes. Your dentist may assess your teeth, gums and general oral health before beginning orthodontic treatment. Existing dental problems may need to be addressed before Invisalign treatment starts.
Am I too old for Invisalign?
Adults commonly investigate Invisalign because of the discreet appearance of clear aligners. Age alone doesn’t determine whether Invisalign is suitable. Your individual dental condition, oral health and treatment requirements are more important considerations.
What about teenagers?
Invisalign treatment may also be an option for suitable teenage patients. Because the aligners are removable, patients need to be responsible enough to wear them according to their prescribed schedule.
Do I need to wear Invisalign all day?
Almost. Invisalign advises that aligners are typically worn approximately 20–22 hours each day. They’re generally removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning your teeth, according to instructions from your treating dentist.
What happens at an Invisalign assessment?
Your dentist will want to understand both your dental condition and what you would like to achieve. This may involve examining the position of your teeth, your bite, crowding or spacing, your teeth and gums, previous dental work, your overall oral health and your smile goals.
Invisalign isn’t just about having straight teeth
Orthodontic treatment involves changing the position of your teeth and potentially your bite. That’s why treatment should be professionally planned and monitored.
Find out whether you’re suitable for Invisalign in Brisbane
Alderley Dental is conveniently located approximately 6km north of Brisbane CBD and welcomes patients from Alderley and surrounding suburbs including Enoggera, Newmarket, Gaythorne and Stafford.
Not ready for an appointment? Start online
You can take the first step from home with Alderley Dental’s Virtual Smile Consultation. Simply submit photographs of your smile and tell us what you’d like to improve. Dr Robert Zhang will personally assess your submission and provide an outline of potentially suitable treatment options and pricing information.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if I’m suitable for Invisalign?
An individual dental assessment is required. Suitability depends on your teeth, bite, oral health, treatment goals and the complexity of the movements required. - Can Invisalign treat crowded teeth?
Invisalign may be used for different types of crowding. Whether it’s appropriate for your particular case requires professional assessment. - Can Invisalign close gaps?
It may be suitable for some spacing concerns. Your dentist should first assess the cause and extent of the spacing. - Can adults get Invisalign?
Yes, Invisalign is used by adults as well as younger patients. Suitability is based on your individual dental circumstances rather than age alone. - Can Invisalign treat bite problems?
Invisalign can potentially address certain overbites, underbites, crossbites and open bites. Treatment suitability depends on the individual case. - What if Invisalign isn’t suitable for me?
Your dentist can discuss other treatment options that may be more appropriate for your teeth and goals.
Could Invisalign work for your smile?
Learn more about Invisalign at Alderley Dental, book a complimentary initial Invisalign suitability consultation or start online with our Virtual Smile Consultation.
All dental treatment carries risks and may not be suitable for everyone. Individual consultation with a dental practitioner is required to determine whether treatment is appropriate for you.
