Invisalign can be used to resolve a range of issues, including unwanted gaps.
If you have gaps between your teeth, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do about the issue. Fortunately, this type of concern can be effectively resolved with the help of clear aligners. Clear aligners work by applying pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into new positions over time.
What causes gaps?
In many cases, gaps between the teeth are the result of genetic factors that cause the irregular spacing of the teeth. Gapped teeth can also be caused by other factors, including habits like thumb-sucking and extended pacifier use.
Physical factors that can contribute to gaps between the teeth include an abnormally shaped dental arch or an oversized frenum. The frenum is the tissue that attaches the gums to the middle of the top lip — if this tissue is too large or thick, gaps between the teeth can occur.
Do gapped teeth cause oral health issues?
It can be difficult to thoroughly clean gapped teeth compared with perfectly aligned teeth as food particles can easily get stuck in the spaces between irregularly spaced teeth. Gapped teeth are susceptible to issues like plaque build-up, which can lead to bad breath, gum disease and tooth decay.
In some cases, gapped teeth can contribute to speech-related problems. Irregular spacing can also sometimes affect the adjacent teeth.
What are the treatment options?
The most effective ways to resolve gapped teeth are with the use of traditional metal braces or clear aligners. Both of these treatments work by exerting pressure on the teeth, which forces them to shift into new positions gradually over time.
While traditional metal braces are an effective option, clear aligners are well-suited to those who would prefer a more discreet treatment. Clear aligners are a popular choice for adults and teenagers because they are virtually invisible and achieve excellent results without the need for metal wires and brackets.
If you choose to go ahead with Invisalign, you will need to wear your clear aligners for around 22 hours every day. They can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks before it is updated to a new one. Your orthodontist will explain the process in detail with you, and let you know when to change your aligners.
What other issues can Invisalign resolve?
Besides gapped teeth, Invisalign can also be used to address a range of other orthodontic concerns. In many cases, clear aligners can effectively resolve mild alignment problems, as well as crooked and crowded teeth. Certain bite-related issues, such as underbite and overbite, can be treated with Invisalign.
How can we help?
At My Dental Care @ West End, we offer Invisalign clear aligners, which are often an ideal choice for individuals who would like to straighten their teeth without the inconvenience of metal braces.
If you have gaps between your teeth or any other orthodontic issue that you would like resolved, we encourage you to come in and see us. While more complex issues cannot always be addressed with Invisalign, simple orthodontic concerns can often be treated with the help of clear aligners. When you come in for a consultation, we will examine your teeth and let you know what kind of treatment is best for you.
If you would like to find out more about Invisalign and what the process involves at My Dental Care @ West End, please have a look here.
If you would like to arrange a consultation to see us, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here or give us a call on (07)3846 2548.
Besides Invisalign, we also offer a comprehensive range of other dental services. These include general, cosmetic, restorative and sedation dentistry treatments. To find out more about the treatments that we offer at My Dental Care @ West End, please have a look here.
