Invisalign® Candidacy in Northridge, CA

Is Invisalign Treatment Right for You?

If you’re considering Invisalign as an orthodontic treatment option, you’ll want to consult with our dentist in Seattle to ensure that you’re an ideal candidate. Invisalign is a popular and effective alternative to traditional metal braces, providing a more discreet and comfortable solution for many orthodontic issues. However, not everyone is a good candidate for Invisalign.

To learn more about Invisalign treatment and if it’s right for your smile goals, contact Kevin H Gropp, DDS at 818-709-8645 today to schedule a consultation.

Who Is the Ideal Invisalign Candidate?

woman smiling The ideal Invisalign candidate is someone who has mild to moderate orthodontic issues. This includes crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, and mild bite problems. Invisalign can also fix some cases of overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

Invisalign is especially popular among adults who want to straighten their teeth but don’t want the metal wires and brackets associated with traditional braces. Invisalign clear aligners are made of clear plastic and are virtually invisible when worn.

What Invisalign Can Fix

Crooked and Crowded Teeth

If your teeth are crooked or crowded, Invisalign can gradually straighten them out over time. Crooked teeth can cause issues with biting and chewing, as well as negatively impact your overall appearance. With Invisalign, treatment can help straighten your teeth and improve your oral health, while also giving you a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

Gaps Between Teeth

Invisalign trays can also close gaps between teeth. Gaps can cause food to get stuck between teeth, increase the risk of gum disease, and affect your smile. Invisalign can help move your teeth closer together and close the gaps between permanent teeth, leading to improved oral health and a more confident smile.

Overbite

If your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth, this is called an overbite. An overbite can cause issues with speaking, eating, and jaw pain. Invisalign can correct this issue by gradually shifting your teeth into proper alignment, improving your bite, and reducing discomfort.

Underbite

An underbite can lead to issues with chewing, speech, and jaw pain. Invisalign trays can correct this issue by gradually shifting your teeth into proper alignment, improving your bite, and reducing discomfort.

Crossbite

If some of your upper teeth bite inside your lower teeth, this is called a crossbite. A crossbite can cause tooth wear, jaw pain, and even make your face look asymmetrical. Invisalign can fix this issue by gradually shifting your teeth into proper alignment, improving your bite, and reducing discomfort.

The Benefits of Invisalign

Here are some of the key benefits of Invisalign clear aligners:

Aesthetics: Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and constructed from smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic. This makes treatment very discreet compared to metal braces.
Removability: Invisalign aligners are removable, making it easy to clean teeth, eat and drink. Patients only wear aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day.
Effective: Invisalign uses the same orthodontic techniques as braces to shift teeth into alignment. Tracking technology ensures precise, gradual tooth movements.
Comfort: The smooth plastic is gentle on teeth and gums. There are no metal brackets or wires to cause irritation.
Convenience: No dietary restrictions. Invisalign aligners allow you to maintain your normal oral hygiene routine. Fewer dental visits compared to traditional braces.
Shorter Treatment Times: The average Invisalign treatment is 12-18 months, faster than metal braces. Certain minor cases can be resolved in even less time.
Clear Speaking: Without metal in the mouth, speech is not obstructed during treatment.
Healthier Gums: The lack of cuts and abrasions from metal braces promotes better long-term gum health.
Confidence: Enhancing your smile without the “braces” look improves self-esteem.

Who Doesn’t Qualify for Invisalign?

While Invisalign can be a great option for many people, it’s not always the best choice. Invisalign may not be right for you if:

Severe Orthodontic Issues: If you have severe orthodontic issues, such as a very large overbite or underbite, traditional braces may be a better option.
Young Children: Invisalign is generally not recommended for young children whose teeth are still developing. However, teenagers with all of their adult teeth may qualify for Invisalign Teen.
Complex Dental Issues: If you have complex dental issues, such as missing teeth, Invisalign may not be the right treatment.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Invisalign requires good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing after every meal. If you struggle with these habits, Invisalign may not be the best option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need to wear my Invisalign aligners?

To achieve the best results, it’s recommended that you wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 22 hours a day. You should remove them when eating, brushing your teeth, and flossing. Outside of those situations, wear them consistently as directed by your dentist to ensure that your treatment progresses as planned.

Will wearing Invisalign aligners affect my speech?

Invisalign aligners may affect your speech for the first few days of treatment. You may notice a slight lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain words. However, most people adjust to wearing the aligners fairly quickly and don’t experience any speech issues after the initial adjustment period. If you do experience persistent speech issues, be sure to talk to your dentist.

Can I get Invisalign instead of braces?

Yes, you can choose Invisalign over traditional braces depending on your orthodontic needs. Invisalign offers nearly invisible alignment, comfort, removability for eating and oral hygiene, and reduced office visits. However, for complex orthodontic cases, such as severely crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, traditional braces might be more effective.

Achieve Straight Teeth Through the Invisalign Process Today

Invisalign treatment can transform your smile and improve your quality of life. If you think you may be a candidate, contact our Invisalign provider today at 818-709-8645 to schedule a consultation. Our Northridge dental team is dedicated to helping you achieve the perfect smile, of your dreams and we are here to answer any questions you may have about Invisalign candidacy and treatment.

Take the first step towards a brighter, more beautiful smile, and get Invisalign today!