What Can Invisalign Not Fix?

Invisalign has revolutionized the world of orthodontics, offering a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. While these clear aligners are effective for addressing many dental issues, not every dental problem can be solved with Invisalign. In this blog, we'll delve into what Invisalign cannot fix, helping you make an informed decision about your orthodontic treatment options.

Severe Bite Issues

Invisalign is highly effective for mild to moderate bite issues, but when it comes to severe cases, traditional braces may be the better option. Severe bite problems often require more significant adjustments that Invisalign cannot provide. Some of these issues include:

• Extreme overbites or underbites
• Significant crossbites
• Severe open bites

These conditions often require the use of additional appliances or even surgery to correct, which are beyond the scope of what Invisalign can achieve.

Rotated Teeth

Invisalign is designed to gently move teeth into their desired positions, but it has its limits. Teeth that are rotated more than 20 degrees may not respond well to Invisalign treatment. This is because the aligners may not be able to grip the tooth effectively enough to apply the necessary force to rotate it into place. In such cases, traditional braces, which can exert more force, may be required to achieve the desired results.

Moreover, the complexity of the tooth's rotation can also affect Invisalign's ability to correct the issue. If the rotation is due to underlying structural problems, additional interventions may be necessary.

Large Gaps Between Teeth

While Invisalign is effective for closing small to moderate gaps between teeth, larger spaces can be challenging to correct with aligners alone. Large gaps may require additional treatments, such as bonding or veneers, to achieve optimal results.

Invisalign can help move teeth closer together, but if the gaps are too wide, the aligners may not be able to close them completely.

It's important to consult with a dental professional to determine the best treatment plan for large gaps, as combining Invisalign with other procedures might be the most effective approach.

Complex Dental Issues

Complex dental issues, such as those involving the jawbone or significant tooth misalignment, may not be suitable for Invisalign treatment. Some of these complex cases include:

• Jaw discrepancies that require surgical intervention
• Severe crowding of teeth
• Teeth that need to be moved vertically

In these situations, a combination of orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces or even surgery, may be necessary to achieve the desired results.

Transform Your Smile with Pacific Oak Dental in Forest Grove, OR

While Invisalign is a fantastic option for many, it's crucial to understand its limitations. If you're considering orthodontic treatment, the team at Pacific Oak Dental in Forest Grove, OR, led by Dr. Jared Thompson, is here to help you explore your options. We invite you to contact us at (503) 357-9122 to schedule a consultation and discover the best path to achieving your dream smile. Your journey to a healthier, more confident smile starts here!