For a quick answer: yes! Invisalign is great at fixing crowded teeth depending on the severity. Invisalign works similarly to braces in the case where they are meant to straighten a smile! Sometimes, there will be additional orthodontic work needed prior to the use of Invisalign, such as the use of a palette expander. Crowded teeth can be caused by a variety of different concerns. Read below to learn more about how Invisalign can straighten your teeth!
How Do Teeth Become Crowded?
There are a variety of different reasons as to why teeth may become crowded. Some of these reasons can be prevented while others are simply genetic.
Some of the genetic reasons that cause teeth to be crowded are where teeth are too large for the mouth and jaws or too small. To fix crowded teeth from large teeth or small jaws, there may be other additional tools used, like a palette expander, before your orthodontist moves on to using Invisalign.
Sometimes during utero development, there are uncontrollable cases where portions of the teeth, jaw, or facial structure do not develop as expected. An example of this is a cleft palette. While this will require other surgeries beforehand, Invisalign can be used to help straighten teeth later if needed.
If you have had an accident, sometimes this can lead to teeth becoming crowded. An example of this can involve an injury where you lose a tooth. The other remaining teeth in your mouth can shift to fill the gap left by the missing tooth. Invisalign can be used to help correct this misalignment.
There are some cases that are controllable. If a child is a long-term pacifier user or thumb sucker, this can lead to misaligned or crowded teeth. By having an object constantly in the mouth, the teeth will need to grow around it.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is a clear plastic tray that is worn in your mouth all day with the exception of eating, drinking colourful liquids, and brushing or flossing your teeth. Invisalign treatment typically lasts about 6-18 months. This timeline can change depending on the severity of your crowding.
Every few weeks, you will have to return to your orthodontist to receive a new set of aligner trays. At the beginning of your Invisalign treatment, a digital 3D mold will be taken of your mouth. This 3D mold is then used to create your first set of aligners and is then used to help accurately predict how your teeth will move. Each tray is the next step in your treatment, gently putting pressure on your teeth to move into the desired position. The aligners are held in your mouth with the help of attachments. Attachments are small handles placed on your back molars that will secure your aligners in your mouth so they don’t move. Each treatment plan is different and unique to you! The best way to determine what your orthodontic treatment may look like is by booking a consultation with an orthodontist!