Invisalign for Complex Cases: Treating Severe Overbite and Underbite at Hugo, MN

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By Lakeview Family Dentistry

A beautiful, healthy smile is important for your overall confidence. When considering correction for severe overbites and underbites, the proper treatment may make all the difference. People who have these misalignments often have more than cosmetic concerns; they may experience discomfort and difficulty while chewing, speaking, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Many individuals seeking an almost invisible path to perfecting their smile have become attracted to Invisalign.

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign offers a clear and comfortable solution that fits into your lifestyle. If you have a severe overbite or underbite, you may wonder if Invisalign is an option for you. In this blog, we will discuss how Invisalign can address complex cases, the advantages over traditional braces, and why it is gaining popularity among those seeking orthodontic treatment.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign offers an innovative orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to move your teeth into proper alignment gradually. These are custom-fit to your teeth to ensure they apply gentle pressure over time. As your teeth straighten, the aligners are replaced every few weeks. Since they are clear, they are almost invisible, allowing you to smile confidently throughout your treatment.

Invisalign works by gradually moving the teeth to improve one’s bite and alignment in cases of severe dental misalignment, such as overbites and underbites. Not all cases are suitable for Invisalign in Hugo, MN. For more complex cases, your dentist or orthodontist will determine if it is the best treatment option for you by examining your dental situation.

How Severe Misalignments Are Treated Using Invisalign

Invisalign is a customized treatment plan that uses clear aligners to shift your teeth into place gradually. Steps taken during this treatment ensure effectiveness and comfort while providing a discreet alternative to traditional braces. For those considering Invisalign to treat a severe overbite or underbite, here’s what you can expect from the process.

  1. Consultation and Evaluation: It all starts with a consultation with your dentist or orthodontist, during which they will check your bite and overall oral health. They may employ X-rays and scans to get a better view of your teeth.
  2. Treatment Plan Establishment: After examination, a treatment plan is designed, focused on your specific situation, a severe overbite or underbite.
  3. Custom Aligners Made: Once the plan is finalized, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. Those impressions are used to make a series of clear, custom aligners.
  4. Wearing Aligners: You will wear a set of aligners for about 2 weeks before moving to the next set in the series. It is this gradual shift that ensures good results.
  5. Follow-Up: Your dentist will schedule regular follow-ups to monitor your progress and will make adjustments to ensure that the treatment stays on course.

Invisalign vs. Braces: Which is Better for Severe Overbite and Underbite?

While Invisalign and traditional braces are both effective in treating misaligned teeth, they have their own advantages. Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires that are bonded to your teeth and are periodically adjusted by your dentist or orthodontist to move your teeth. While effective, braces can be uncomfortable, visible, and more difficult to clean around.

On the other hand, Invisalign aligners are made of smooth, clear plastic and can therefore be more comfortable to wear. They are removable, so you can take them out to eat, brush, and floss. This also makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene throughout the treatment. Regarding treatment time, Invisalign can sometimes provide faster results than traditional braces, although this varies depending on the severity of the case.

Caring for Your Invisalign Aligners

Taking care of your Invisalign aligners is easy yet essential to ensure that they do their job. The following steps will ensure your teeth will move as projected and give you the best possible results.

  • You should remove your aligners when you eat or drink anything other than water. 
  • Clean them daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap to keep them free from accumulated bacteria. 
  • It is essential to listen to your dentist regarding how many hours a day you need to wear them, which is about 20 to 22 hours per day.

Achieve a Perfect Smile with Invisalign at Young Dental Care

If you have a severe overbite or underbite and are seeking an almost invisible, very comfortable treatment option, Invisalign could be just what you are looking for. Thanks to custom-designed aligners that will progressively move your teeth into position, Invisalign is comfortable and effective for giving you a good bite and a smile worth being proud of.

At Young Dental Care, our team is prepared to help you achieve the smile you deserve. If you’re interested in learning more about Invisalign or would like to set up a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to helping you take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile!

FAQs

  1. How long does Invisalign treatment take for severe misalignments?
    The duration of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the severity of the misalignment. Generally, treatment can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months, with some cases requiring a little longer.
  2. Can Invisalign treat both overbites and underbites?
    Yes, Invisalign can treat both overbites and underbites, depending on the severity of the condition. Your dentist or orthodontist will assess your case to determine if Invisalign aligners are the best solution for you.
  3. Are Invisalign aligners really invisible?
    Yes, Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic, making them virtually invisible. Most people won’t notice you’re wearing them, making them a discreet option for adults and teens alike.
  4. How often do I need to visit the dentist during Invisalign treatment?
    Typically, you will need to visit your dentist every 6 to 8 weeks to monitor your progress and receive new sets of aligners. These visits are quick and important for ensuring that treatment is proceeding as planned.
  5. Can I eat and drink with Invisalign aligners?
    Invisalign aligners should be removed when eating or drinking anything other than water. This helps prevent staining and damage to the aligners while also allowing you to enjoy meals without restriction.
  6. Is Invisalign comfortable to wear?
    Many people find Invisalign aligners more comfortable than traditional braces because they are smooth and custom-fitted to your teeth. While you may feel some discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners, it’s typically much less than the pain associated with braces.