Can Invisalign fix Midline Misalignment?
An attractive and healthy smile is an invaluable asset that will boost your self-esteem and self-confidence. Yet, having crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth can impact both your oral health as well as your appearance. Braces have been used to straighten teeth for many years, but with innovative digital technology, clear aligners are becoming an increasingly popular choice for orthodontic corrective treatment.
Clear aligners are a series of translucent plastic trays that are digitally designed to fit snuggly over your teeth and gradually move them into a corrected position. A common issue that these aligners will correct is midline misalignment.
What Is Midline Misalignment?
Midline misalignment is an issue where the center line of your upper teeth does not line up properly with the center line of your bottom teeth. This can cause problems, such as:
- Natural aesthetics- Midline misalignment results in an unattractive smile.
- Bite issues- Misaligned teeth create an improper bite, which will then lead to difficulty chewing, uneven tooth wear, and even jaw pain.
- Speech problems- Misaligned teeth can influence your speech, resulting in a lisp or difficulty with certain words.
- TMJ disorders- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can evolve from misaligned teeth, resulting in pain and stiffness in your jaw.
How Can Invisalign Correct Midline Misalignment?
Clear aligners will indeed correct midline misalignment by shifting the position of your teeth until they are in proper alignment. Here is the process:
- Consultation and assessment- The first step is to seek advice from your dentist to determine if clear aligners are the right treatment for you. They will examine your teeth, capture x-rays, and make impressions to create a 3D model of your teeth.
- Customized clear aligners- Using this 3D model, your dentist will digitally create a specific treatment plan which creates a set of clear aligners that will move your teeth into the proper alignment. You will receive a series of aligners, each of which is to be worn for two weeks, then moving to the next one.
- Wearing the aligners- It is essential you wear the clear aligners for 20-22 hours each day, removing them for eating and brushing only. As you proceed through each aligner, you will notice that your teeth are gradually shifting.
- Regular check-ups- During your treatment, you will have regular check-ins with your dentist to confirm that your teeth are moving as planned. They will determine if you may need any additional aligners to complete the treatment.
The Benefits of Treating Midline Misalignment with Invisalign
Clear aligners offer a number of benefits over metal braces, including:
- Discreet appearance- Translucent plastic aligners are clear, making them virtually invisible. You can correct your teeth without feeling self-conscious about braces.
- Comfort- Clear aligners are smooth and comfortable plastic, so they will not irritate your gums and cheeks like braces.
- Removable- The clear aligners are removable, making it easier to brush and floss your teeth, maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Faster treatment time- Sometimes these clear aligners have corrected a midline misalignment quicker than braces.
Improve Your Smile
Midline misalignment is a frequent dental issue that can be corrected with clear aligners. Aligners are a discrete, comfortable, and effective treatment that delivers a healthy smile. Ask your dentist if clear aligners are a viable choice for you.