What Can Invisalign Not Fix?

Invisalign can perform miracles when it comes to giving you a killer smile, but there are some dental problems that are just a bit too much to chew for clear aligners. So, what can Invisalign not fix? We’re going to answer that question and take a look at how Invisalign works so you can decide if it’s right for you.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign uses a set of clear aligners to move your teeth into their correct position. Computer-generated molds are used to create custom-made aligners so you never have to worry about the aligners not fitting properly. 

The aligners fit snugly over your teeth and gradually work to move your teeth into position by gently applying pressure on your teeth. You change the aligners every week or two. The number of aligners you’ll need will depend on your problems and what you hope to accomplish.

What Can Invisalign Fix?

Invisalign can fix a variety of dental issues including:

• Small gaps between teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Normal overbites and underbites
• Crowded teeth
• Open bite (top and bottom teeth don’t meet)
• Crossbite (some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than on the outside)

What Can Invisalign Not Fix?

While Invisalign can fix many different types of dental issues, there are just some that are too complicated for the aligners to take on. It may be helpful to review these issues that clear aligners can’t handle but to also review the cost comparison of metal braces vs Invisalign. If you’re wondering whether clear aligners are the right choice for you, or if you should opt for traditional metal braces to fix bigger issues, take a look at what’s considered too much for dental aligners:

Some Rotated Teeth

When teeth are overcrowded they can rotate in their sockets. Although Invisalign can fix rotated teeth in many cases, if a tooth is rotated more than 20 degrees from where it should be, Invisalign won’t work.

Severe Overbite or Underbite

People with an overbite experience their top teeth sticking out over their bottom teeth. With an underbite, your bottom teeth extend past your top teeth. When either of these cases is severe, Invisalign may not work. Often, traditional metal braces are needed to fix these types of issues.

Intrusions and Extrusions

If a tooth needs to be moved higher or lower, traditional braces are needed because Invisalign can’t move teeth up or down.

Large Gaps

While Invisalign can close small gaps between teeth well, the same can’t be said for larger gaps. Your orthodontist will let you know if your gap is too large for Invisalign to handle.

Short Teeth

People with short teeth often have a hard time with Invisalign because the aligners can’t grip as they should. Teeth that are pegged and misshapen can also be too much of a challenge for Invisalign to handle.

Midline Movements

Invisalign also has limitations when it comes to getting your front teeth to match your midline (the imaginary line down the middle of your face). Invisalign can correct a midline discrepancy of 2 mm either to the left or to the right. Anything larger than that needs to be treated with traditional braces.

If you have cavities or gum disease, you’ll also want to talk with your orthodontist before getting Invisalign. Previous dental work, like dental bridges, can also present challenges for Invisalign.

The Bottom Line

When people want to know, does Invisalign work? The short answer is yes. You just want to know the limitations and discuss what can Invisalign not fix so that you’re happy with your results. 

If you have more questions about Invisalign and how it works, take the Invisalign smile assessment below, call us today at  919-330-1710 or reach out to us online. Let us help you get the smile you’ve always wanted!