Invisalign® is one of several options you might be considering for straightening teeth. It is a way to correct the alignment by regularly changing the trays as the teeth move into the proper positions. While it may not be right for everybody, many people with less complex orthodontic cases have success using Invisalign. With Invisalign, your teeth-straightening trays can move teeth closer together or farther apart as needed.

When Invisalign works better

Teeth can be out of alignment when too close together, overcrowded, or spaced too far apart. Invisalign works more effectively if the gap is no bigger than six millimeters. It can also help with mildly rotated teeth. Invisalign will also work well for mild overbite and underbite issues. More severe issues may need other orthodontic work. Other dental issues that respond well to Invisalign are:

  • Overlapping teeth
  • Protruding teeth
  • Poorly positioned teeth

Maturity can be a factor. Younger patients are more likely to misplace Invisalign trays. The Invisalign process works better when the patient wears the trays for the recommended number of hours per day. Patients who cannot stick with a good routine will struggle. Older teens and adults who follow the dentist’s instructions will see more success.

Who may want to reconsider

Patients who have severe overcrowding and need one or more teeth extracted may not be ideal candidates for Invisalign. In serious cases, teeth can be well in front or back of the rest. Traditional braces are better for moving these teeth into place. Some people who have had an extraction due to overcrowding may not be able to use Invisalign after.

Children and younger teens may not see success with Invisalign. Young people’s jaws are still growing. As the jawbone continues to grow, teeth may rotate on their own, or gaps may open up between teeth. The work that the teeth-straightening trays did may not last. Traditional braces can be more effective because the dentist can adjust them as the patient’s jaw grows.

Some dental work does not work well with Invisalign. Invisalign moves teeth individually. Bridgework bonds to multiple teeth and might not move properly. Invisalign can damage other dental work like veneers and crowns.