How Does Invisalign Help with Overcrowding?
Crowded teeth occur when there isn’t enough room in the jaw for healthy spacing. This causes the teeth to overlap and twist or be pushed forward or backward. Modern orthodontic options like Invisalign® can correct overcrowding. Invisalign treatment involves a series of clear plastic aligners used to gently and effectively move teeth into their proper positions.
Our orthodontist, Dr. Kellyn Hodges, works with patients in Philadelphia, Bala Cynwyd, and Bensalem, PA, who require all types of dental and orthodontic treatments. For overcrowded teeth, Dr. Hodges often recommends Invisalign clear aligners.
The Problems with Crowded Teeth
Bunched-up, crooked teeth are difficult to clean and prone to capturing more food particles. This combination creates an environment where disease-causing bacteria thrive, leading to cavities and gum disease.
Overcrowding is also an aesthetic concern for many patients. They often feel self-conscious about their smiles which can cause low self-esteem.
Invisalign helps patients achieve and maintain better oral health and can dramatically boost their self-confidence.
How Invisalign Works for Crowded Teeth
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign uses a clear and comfortable patented material called SmartTrack®. This material is unique to Invisalign aligners and was created to provide patients with the best experience and the best results. The SmartTrack aligners do four specific things:
- Apply gentle, constant pressure to the teeth
- Control tooth movements
- Fit perfectly around the teeth
- Make treatment more predictable
Each aligner is made specifically for each patient, and every aligner in the patient’s treatment plan is carefully crafted to gently move the teeth. Every four to six weeks, patients visit their Invisalign dentist to ensure their treatment is progressing as expected. During these appointments, dentists may adjust the treatment time. However, when patients commit to wearing their aligners properly and consistently, adjusting the treatment time is unlikely.
Invisalign Buttons and Elastics
Compared to other types of misalignment, like gapped teeth, overcrowding can create more complex issues. We might recommend buttons, small bumps that are bonded to the teeth to more securely hold the trays in place. In other cases, elastics can facilitate better tooth movement. We are experienced in treating all types of crowding and will tailor your treatment plan to your unique needs.
Are Braces Better for Crowded Teeth?
In some especially severe cases, we might recommend braces to achieve your desired results. It is also important to understand Invisalign patients must be compliant and wear the trays between 20 and 22 hours a day.
The length of your treatment could be extended if you do not wear the aligners consistently. If you think you will be tempted to remove the aligners too often throughout the day or completely forget about them, traditional braces may be a better option.
Get Started on a Healthier Smile
Are you ready to correct your crowded teeth? This precise and personalized treatment could be for you. Straighten your teeth without the need for bulky metal brackets and wires. Invisalign clear aligners are discreet, comfortable, and extremely effective. Contact Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics today to schedule an initial consultation. Call (610) 617-0070 or send us a message online.