Often, dentists or orthodontists who do not use Invisalign regularly may refuse cases due to complexity, time-consuming nature, or lack of comfort with complex tooth movements. There are a few conditions that may disqualify you from receiving Invisalign treatment. If you have active gum disease or tooth decay, you must be treated before continuing with Invisalign. Additionally, if oral surgery or extreme dental procedures are to be performed, Invisalign may not be able to correct problems such as large overbites that require orthodontic procedures to displace the jaw.
If you have dental implants, bridges, or TMJ problems, this can make Invisalign more difficult, but they are not absolute disqualifiers. Some people with small, eroded or deformed teeth may need more dental work to correct problems, but in general dentists can work with mouth problems along with Invisalign treatments, unless they are serious. The only way to really know if you are a good candidate for Invisalign is to have a consultation with an orthodontist. Don't let your preconceptions about Invisalign prevent you from investigating this type of treatment.
Factors such as the severity of crooked teeth and age can determine whether treatment with Invisalign or braces would be more effective on a case-by-case basis. Invisalign can correct crowded or gapped teeth, and even an overbite, underbite, or cross-bite, but depending on the severity it may not be applicable. As teeth continue to grow during the early teens, younger patients may not be eligible. We encourage all our patients to stop smoking during treatment with Invisalign and forever.
Invisalign requires more responsibility than any other type of orthodontic option. Although aligners are removable, patients should keep them in place for at least 22 hours a day. We know it can be tempting to get them out for all sorts of reasons, but eating and brushing your teeth are the only two reasons why they should be removed. Most dentists only recommend Invisalign to older teens and adults.
Younger children may prefer clear aligners, but keeping up with them and using them properly tends to be much more difficult for this age group. The Invisalign system may not be as effective at widening the arch or fixing an overbite as metal braces. Therefore, it is important to consult an orthodontist to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign treatment.
