Invisalign is an orthodontic system that provides a great alternative to traditional braces. If you are concerned about gaps or spaces between your teeth, Invisalign may be a great choice. In this post, Dr. Jason Keefe of 5 Mile Smiles discusses how Invisalign fixes gaps between the teeth.
What Is Invisalign?
The Invisalign system uses a series of clear aligners to straighten your teeth over time. The aligners are all custom-made to gradually shift your teeth.
Invisalign has many unique attributes when compared to traditional braces:
- The aligners are removable, so there’s no need to worry about avoiding eating certain foods.
- Aligners are clear, so people won’t even know that you’re wearing them.
- Treatment time is typically shorter than with traditional braces.
- You’ll need to meet with your Invisalign provider regularly, but you’ll generally have fewer visits than you would if you used traditional braces.
Invisalign can be used to treat many of the same issues as traditional braces, including overbites, crowded teeth, or gaps between teeth.
Problems With Gap Teeth
The biggest problem with gap teeth is often cosmetic. People with gap teeth may feel insecure. They may avoid smiling or use a closed-lip smile to avoid showing their teeth.
Gap teeth can also be caused other issues. The portion of the gum that is exposed between the teeth may be vulnerable to damage. Food may become stuck between the teeth, and there may even be a higher risk of gum disease.
Invisalign Treatment of Gap Teeth
Invisalign treats gap teeth with a fully customized system that reduces the gaps over time. First, you’ll have a set of aligners designed for your mouth. Each aligner set is worn for about two weeks. Most people end up wearing 20 to 30 sets of aligners.
Each set of aligners makes a small progression from the last set. You may feel some minor pressure when you first put on a new set of aligners. After several days, your teeth will adjust and the new aligners will make small changes to the positioning of your teeth.
Gaps between your teeth will slowly close using the Invisalign system. You may not notice immediate changes, but there will be noticeable differences if you follow the Invisalign system consistently. The Invisalign treatment typically lasts somewhere between several months and a year.
Learn more about Invisalign by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Keefe. Please call or email our Spokane cosmetic dentistry office to schedule your appointment.
