Do I Still Need Invisalign if My Teeth Look Straight?
Even people with straight-looking teeth can benefit from clear aligner therapy. Why? Because there are factors other than aesthetics that contribute to a healthy bite pattern and well-functioning jaw joints. At our Huntington Beach, CA, dental office, we make sure to keep your long-term oral health in mind. During an exam, we’ll make sure to screen for issues that even you might not notice. If we think you could benefit from Invisalign, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. While everyone’s needs are different, we’ll cover some common reasons you could benefit from clear aligners in this article.
An Overbite or Similar Issue
While your teeth might appear straight, you could still suffer from one of several bite issues:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Crossbite
Correctly aligned upper and lower teeth should meet evenly all along the dental arch. Your upper teeth should overlap your lower teeth but not to an excessive degree.
If we notice that you have a bite issue during an exam at our Huntington Beach office, we can discuss your options.
Teeth Grinding
Some people are well aware they grind their teeth. They experience related issues like a sore jaw and trouble opening their mouths fully. Others grind their teeth at night and only your dentist can observe the effects–like tiny hairline fractures on the molars.
If you grind your teeth, your bite might not be properly aligned. Orthodontic treatment like clear aligners can alleviate clenching and other symptoms of TMJ disorder by addressing the root cause. In addition to clear aligners, you might also benefit from elastics to reposition the lower jaw.
Crowded Molars
Straight teeth not only look attractive. They’re easier to keep clean, minimizing your risk of developing cavities and gum disease. But the teeth you see when you smile in the mirror aren’t the only ones you need to worry about. Because our molars are located at the back of the mouth, they’re particularly difficult to keep clean. Invisalign can align the back teeth for improved oral health.
So What Can Invisalign Achieve?
Now that we have a greater understanding of the different types of concerns Invisalign can treat, let’s review:
- Invisalign can produce straight, healthy-looking teeth
- Invisalign can establish a healthy, comfortable bite pattern to alleviate stress on your jaw joints
- Invisalign can ensure your lower teeth meet your upper teeth in an optimal position, guarding against worn teeth and other dental problems
Next, we invite you to visit our office so we can review your goals and your treatment options. Regardless of your unique needs, we’re confident we can exceed your expectations. And remember: While straight teeth are a beautiful asset, it’s important to look after the health of your entire mouth.
Request an Invisalign Consultation to Learn More
Beach City Dental has recently relocated to a beautiful new office in Huntington Beach. When you visit our team, we’ll discuss not only your cosmetic goals but also ways we can help you establish a strong, healthy foundation to enjoy a confident smile for a lifetime. Take the first step today. Send a message to our team to set up a consultation.