Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment with clear aligners designed to correct various dental and jaw alignment issues. Many patients ask, “Can Invisalign Fix Jaw Alignment Issues?” In this blog, we’ll explain how invisible orthodontics can help improve jaw alignment.
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Does Invisalign Move or Straighten Your Jaw?
The answer is yes. Invisalign aligns your teeth and effectively corrects jaw alignment issues. With a personalized plan for each aligner cycle, this treatment adjusts your teeth and jaw without the need for surgery. If you’re looking for a comfortable and effective solution to improve your jaw alignment, Invisalign might be the ideal option. Some cases that can be treated with this method include:
- Class I Malocclusion
In this type of malocclusion, the upper and lower teeth aren’t perfectly aligned but still fit together relatively normally. These cases often involve mild to moderate crowding, and treatment is primarily sought for aesthetic reasons.
- Class II Malocclusion
Here, the upper teeth are positioned ahead of the lower teeth, a condition known as mandibular retrognathia because the jaw is set back. This type of malocclusion can affect the bite and cause changes in both the smile and facial appearance.
- Class III Malocclusion
In this case, the lower teeth project forward, surpassing the upper teeth, known as mandibular prognathism. This malocclusion affects both the bite and causes aesthetic and functional alterations.
How Orthodontists Use Invisalign Aligners to Treat Jaw Alignment Issues
Depending on the type of malocclusion, orthodontists use Invisalign in different ways to guide your teeth and jaw into a more balanced and aesthetic position. Here’s how it works in each case:
- For Class I Malocclusion
Orthodontists use Invisalign to make specific small movements in the teeth during each treatment cycle, usually between 7 and 15 days. These gradual adjustments help improve dental alignment effectively.
- For Class II Malocclusion
Invisalign is used to gradually move the upper teeth back, correcting the dental protrusion. Sometimes, the orthodontist may extract an upper premolar on each side to facilitate a better fit for the remaining teeth and improve the smile’s aesthetics.
- For Class III Malocclusion
Invisalign is used to move the lower teeth back, widen the upper arch, and reduce the space between the lower teeth to achieve a more balanced smile. In some cases, two lower premolars may be extracted, and bone screws may be used to ensure the proper movement of the lower teeth.
Can You Get Aligners If You Have TMJ Disorder?
Absolutely! Using aligners like Invisalign can be an effective strategy for managing TMJ disorder symptoms. This treatment not only improves tooth alignment but also corrects the bite, which can positively impact how the jaw muscles function. By reducing unnecessary tension in the temporomandibular joint, many patients experience significant relief from pain and discomfort. So, if you suffer from jaw pain or other TMJ-related symptoms, Invisalign might offer long-lasting relief while helping you achieve a more aligned and healthy smile.
Can Aligners Cause TMJ Symptoms?
It’s possible. Since aligners apply pressure to move the teeth, this can alter the jaw’s position. In some cases, this pressure can cause discomfort such as jaw pain, headaches, neck pain, earaches, and even issues with the muscles that control jaw movement, which can make chewing difficult. While these symptoms are uncommon, it’s important to monitor any changes during treatment and discuss them with your orthodontist.
Can Invisalign Clear Aligners Fix an Underbite?
Yes, they can! Invisalign has become a popular and effective option for correcting underbites without traditional braces. The ideal approach will depend on the type of underbite and its severity. Sometimes, a combination of treatments is needed, while in other cases, Invisalign alone can do the job. Here’s how it works in each scenario:
- Posterior Crossbite
If your posterior crossbite is mild, Invisalign can easily correct it. In some cases, orthodontists may use orthodontic elastics along with the aligners to optimize the result. For more severe cases, a combination of clear aligners and expansion techniques can achieve effective correction.
- Anterior Crossbite
For mild anterior crossbites, especially if it only affects one tooth, Invisalign is an excellent option. In some cases, ceramic veneers may be added to perfect the alignment and ensure a harmonious smile.
How to Relieve Jaw Pain from Aligners
While Invisalign aligners are a comfortable option for correcting dental alignment, it’s normal to experience some pain or discomfort at the beginning of the treatment. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to reduce this discomfort and make the process more manageable. Here are some effective tips:
- Apply Ice
Wrap some ice in a cloth and place it on the affected area for a few minutes to reduce discomfort. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin to prevent burns.
- Eat Soft Foods
During the early stages of treatment, it’s better to choose soft foods. Avoid hard or sticky foods, as your teeth will be more sensitive during this period.
- Take Pain Relievers
Pain caused by aligners can be relieved with common pain relievers like ibuprofen. Just make sure to follow the appropriate dosage instructions for your age and weight and consider any allergies.
- File Your Aligners
If the edges of your aligners are too sharp and cause irritation, you can smooth them out with a nail file. Be careful not to over-file them to maintain the necessary pressure on your teeth.
What Are the Benefits of Using Aligners for Straightening Your Jaw?
Choosing clear aligners to correct jaw alignment offers multiple advantages beyond just improving your smile. Here’s why aligners are an excellent option:
- Aesthetic Discretion
One of the main benefits of invisible aligners is that they are nearly unnoticeable. Being transparent, they allow you to correct your jaw without anyone knowing you’re undergoing treatment, keeping your appearance intact.
- Comfort and Smoothness
Made from high-quality, soft plastic, aligners are much more comfortable than traditional metal braces. With smooth edges and no wires to irritate, they prevent sores and injuries in the mouth.
- Removable for Eating and Brushing
Another great advantage is that you can remove the aligners to eat and brush your teeth. This means fewer food restrictions and better oral hygiene, as there’s no risk of food getting trapped in the braces.
- Fewer Visits to the Specialist
Unlike traditional orthodontics, aligners usually require fewer visits to the orthodontist. You can change the aligners at home every two weeks, following the specialist’s instructions, making the treatment easier to manage in your routine.
Conclusion
Invisalign is not only a comfortable and aesthetic solution for aligning your teeth, but it’s also an effective tool for correcting jaw alignment issues. This innovative orthodontic treatment offers comprehensive oral rehabilitation, progressively improving both the position of your jaw and the alignment of your teeth. With Invisalign, you can achieve a more balanced and functional smile while enjoying the additional benefits of a discreet and easy-to-manage treatment.