 Adults seeking treatment often are unhappy with the appearance of their smile. Common complaints include crowding, spacing, misalignment, protruding upper teeth or even jaw and facial esthetic concerns. Treatment can range from simple alignment to preprosthetic orthodontics, to complex surgical/orthodontic treatment to align jaws and teeth. Treatment times can vary from 6-36 months depending on complexity, skeletal components and other dental considerations such as periodontal health and occlusion.
Invisalign‘ is an orthodontic technique, which utilizes a series of clear removable aligners to straighten teeth. Because of this, people who have been apprehensive about having conventional braces now have an alternative to provide correction of their crooked or spaced teeth.
The braces of today are dramatically different from the “railroad tracks” of 20 years ago. We now use:
- small metal and tooth coloured ceramic braces (some self-ligating);
- lingual braces;
- orthodontics WITHOUT braces using clear removable aligners.
With Invisalign' there are no orthodontic braces or wires. Instead, 3D computer technology allows for the fabrication of customized aligners, which are used sequentially. Depending on the severity of the orthodontic problem, the number of precision aligners can range from as few as 10 to as many as 50. Each aligner is worn for two weeks, removed only for brushing, eating, and fl ossing. With each new aligner, the teeth will move gradually until they have achieved the fi nal alignment. Invisalign‘ is not an option for every patient and is not intended for children or patients with unerupted 2nd molars, large skeletal and vertical discrepancies, complex periodontal, prosthetic and occlusal requirements or multiple extraction cases.
The functional benefi ts of adult orthodontics are numerous. Many dentists have noted the negative effects of crowded teeth on the health of the gingiva and oral hygiene. When planning crown and bridge work, as well as implants, orthodontic treatment can optimize the positions of the teeth so that esthetics and occlusion of the restorations are idealized. Teeth may be uprighted, spaces can be opened (or closed) and bone and gingival contours can be changed to suit the needs of the restorative dentist. Roots may be diverged to allow implant placement and teeth may be extruded to bring the margins into a restorable zone respecting biological width considerations. A close
interaction between the orthodontist, periodontist, surgeon and restorative dentist is critical in order to maximize the function, occlusion and esthetics of the fi nal restorations.
The appearance and health a patients teeth is an important aspect of their social/professional lives.
Orthodontic treatment can be an important step towards optimizing your patients’ dental health, esthetics, and restorative needs. |
