Invisalign for Tooth Gaps

By Rafael Mercado, DDS on November 25, 2019

While braces have been an effective orthodontic treatment option for decades, more and more people are turning to Invisalign®. This clear alternative to traditional orthodontics can make a major difference when it comes to health and appearance of your smile. This is particularly true if you have prominent tooth gaps.

Dr. Rafael Mercado has used Invisalign to help countless patients in the Castle Hills, TX area. Let’s discuss why tooth gaps are an issue and how Invisalign can be used to correct this problem.

Why Tooth Gaps Are a Problem

Tooth gaps can cause a number of cosmetic problems and health issues. These include:

  • Self-consciousness while smiling, speaking, and laughing
  • Speech impediments
  • Potential impact on job performance
  • Tooth misalignment
  • Pain while biting and chewing
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • TMJ disorders

These are all compelling reasons to consider orthodontic treatment to close unsightly gaps and improve dental alignment.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign is a simple and straightforward alternative to braces. Patients wear an Invisalign aligner tray at all times save for when eating, drinking, and cleaning their teeth. Every two weeks, they discard the previous aligner tray and move on to the next aligner tray in the sequence. The pattern repeats until the patient has a straight set of teeth and a perfect smile.

The Benefits of Invisalign

There are many benefits to Invisalign, which has made it extremely popular among patients:

  • The clear plastic trays are difficult to notice, even when people are up close
  • Trays are easy to remove and clean
  • No interruption to your diet or daily activities
  • No discomfort or irritation from brackets and wires

Ideal Candidates for Invisalign

Good candidates for Invisalign are adults and teenagers with crooked teeth. Their issues with malocclusion should be predominantly related to the position of the teeth along the dental arch. Both the upper teeth and the lower teeth can be treated with Invisalign.

During your visit to Castle Hills Family Dental, we can determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. We’ll also discuss the various pros and cons of treatment in full detail so you have a realistic idea of what to expect during treatment.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

On average, Invisalign treatment will take several months to two years. This is roughly the same amount of time as traditional orthodontic treatment with braces will take. While developing a treatment plan for your needs, we will be sure to go over treatment timelines in full detail.

The Results of Invisalign

Invisalign has helped countless people have straighter, healthier smiles. At the end of Invisalign treatment, a removable retainer may be provided or a permanent retainer may be placed to help prolong the outcomes of orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign patients are able to smile with confidence and experience all of the benefits of proper dental alignment.

Other Treatment Options for Gapped Teeth

If Invisalign is not a good option for treating your tooth gaps, there are other options out there. Porcelain veneers may be considered for prominent gaps in your front teeth, for example. Traditional orthodontic care may also be a better option. We can discuss these other options when you’re here at our practice.

Learn More About Invisalign

For more information about Invisalign and why it may be ideal for you and your needs, be sure to contact a trusted cosmetic and restorative dentist. You can reach Castle Hills Family Dental by phone at (210) 405-1257.