Very few people grow into perfectly aligned smiles. As an adult, you may have noticed your teeth shifting with age. Poor alignment or irregular fit of the teeth is called malocclusion and it may range from slightly crooked teeth to more severe misalignment. In certain instances, malocclusion may interfere with your ability to eat or speak comfortably and may make cleaning and caring for your teeth more challenging. The most common type of malocclusion is overcrowding.
At Dental Arts Group, serving Philadelphia and Northeast Philadelphia, we believe that every patient deserves the smile of his or her dreams. Many adults feel self-conscious about their smiles but may be concerned about the appearance of conventional braces. That’s why Dr. A provides advanced alignment technology, Invisalign, and is a certified preferred provider.
What is Invisalign?
A revolutionary alignment system, Invisalign eliminates the need for traditional metal and wire braces. Using a series of custom-designed, comfortable alignment trays, Invisalign gently shifts teeth into the proper position over several months. The trays are smooth and clear, making them virtually undetectable. Because Invisalign alignment system is also removable, you can maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine at your convenience and eat your favorite foods without concern.
Am I a candidate for Invisalign?
Invisalign effectively and safely corrects many mild to severe cases of malocclusion, including:
- Overbite, also called overjet – the lower teeth fall within the bite of the upper teeth
- Underbite – the lower teeth protrude beyond the front teeth
- Gaps – spacing issues, abnormal jawbone development, or missing teeth create openings between surrounding teeth
- Open bite – the upper and lower teeth do not sit flush together
- Crowding – too many teeth or too small a mouth can cause teeth to become more crooked over time
- Crossbite – both jaws are misaligned and some of the front teeth bite inside the lower teeth
In addition to the cosmetic concerns, certain cases of malocclusion may put you at risk for plaque buildup, tooth decay, excessive wear and tear, gum disease, impaired speech or eating, or painful jaw problems.
If you are interested in learning how Invisalign technology can help you to achieve your healthiest and happiest smile, call our friendly professionals today at (215) 624-1935.