For decades, there was only one option for the correction of alignment using orthodontics. The problems that have been associated with standard braces, however, keep many teens and adults from receiving the care needed to improve the look and function of the teeth. Invisalign is providing a new opportunity for many orthodontic cases to be treated discreetly.
Many people know of Invisalign as a suitable treatment for overcrowding or excessive space in between teeth. When you visit your West Hollywood Invisalign dentist, you may be surprised at how many dental issues can be remedied with this aligner system of orthodontics. Once thought of as a cosmetic treatment, Invisalign now has the power to bring certain bite issues into alignment, including:
Overbite
When an individual has an overbite, his or her top front teeth may jet out over bottom teeth. Overbites may occur due to genetics, or certain oral habits. Should the bone that supports the teeth develop too much, an overbite may result. An overbite is not only detracting from a beautiful smile, it can cause irritation to gum tissue, undue wear on teeth, or even dysfunction in the temporomandibular joints.
Underbite
Opposite from the overbite problem, an underbite occurs when the anterior bottom teeth are situated in front of the top teeth. An underbite may come from underdevelopment of the upper jaw, overgrowth in the lower jaw, or a combination of the two. The problem may also develop if top front teeth are missing. Similar to overbite, an underbite causes excessive wear on teeth, and undue stress on the joints at the back of the jaw.
Crossbite
When the upper and lower arches are misaligned, a crossbite occurs. In this condition, one may experience an ill fit, wherein a few upper teeth land on the inside of lower teeth upon biting. The teeth typically affected by the crossbite are at the front or each side of the mouth. It is important to correct a crossbite not only for smile aesthetics but also to prevent gum disease and possible bone loss.
Open Bite
For functional chewing to take place, top and bottom teeth need to meet one another. In an open bite, this does not happen. An open bite may be genetic, or may come from certain habits such as thumb sucking. Open bites can make chewing difficult, and can affect speech to some degree. The temporomandibular joints may also become irritated from an open bite.
Invisalign is a treatment that continues to improve with time. Advancing technology now allows for the use of elastics in Invisalign treatment, creating even more opportunity to treat serious bite issues effectively and comfortably.
Contact Downtown Dental to attain your most attractive, healthy smile.