My Teeth Look Straight: Why Do I Still Need Invisalign?

Invisalign® straightens the teeth and enhances the smile using a series of clear aligners, making it a great choice for people who want discreet orthodontic treatment. 

If your teeth look straight but you’ve been told you need orthodontic treatment, you may be wondering why and what Invisalign can do for you. Serving Troy, MI, Birmingham, MI, Bloomfield, MI, and nearby areas, the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute would like to take a moment to explain the importance of Invisalign treatment and how it can improve oral health. 

About Invisalign

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens the teeth and corrects alignment issues using a series of clear aligner trays. Trays are worn throughout the day and while sleeping but should be removed while eating and brushing and flossing the teeth.

Invisalign works by gradually shifting the teeth into their proper places. Aligners are custom-made to move the teeth to their desired position over a period of several months to over a year. 

Why Undergo Invisalign if Your Teeth Look Straight?

Some people who have straight looking teeth are surprised to learn that they could benefit from orthodontic treatment. 

While it may seem unnecessary to straighten teeth that already look straight, there may be alignment issues causing problems you’re not aware of. With this in mind, let’s look at some reasons you may need Invisalign even if your teeth look straight.  

Bite Issues May Not Be Obvious

Although your front teeth may look straight, there could still be alignment issues that are worth treating. For example, the back teeth may not be straight or you may have an underbite, overbite, or crossbite. 

These bite issues result in the teeth overlapping in ways that can affect chewing, cause jaw pain, and increase the risk of gum disease. Additionally, bite issues can cause the teeth to wear down unevenly, increasing the risk of erosion and decay.

Improved Oral Health

Areas where teeth overlap can be difficult to clean or to floss between, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.  

Correcting alignment issues, even minor ones, can significantly improve oral health. When the teeth are straightened and alignment issues corrected, it is often easier to properly brush and floss the teeth by eliminating tight areas where the teeth overlap. 

Alleviate Jaw Strain

For some people, alignment issues can put stress on the jaw joint. This strain can lead to headaches, neck pain, discomfort while eating, and difficulty opening and closing the jaw. 

Those who have a condition called temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder may find their symptoms, like jaw pain and headaches, are made worse by alignment issues. 

Correcting alignment issues can improve comfort while chewing and opening and closing the mouth which in turn can help alleviate jaw strain and associated symptoms. 

Schedule a Consultation

If you have straight looking teeth, you may still benefit from Invisalign orthodontic treatment. For answers to your questions about Invisalign, or to discuss your dental care needs, we welcome you to schedule a consultation at the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute.