How to Straighten Teeth Without Braces

Are you searching for alternatives to traditional braces for straightening your teeth? If so, Invisalign clear aligners can help you achieve a straighter smile without the need for metal brackets and wires. Our orthodontists at Village Orthodontics explain what Invisalign is, how it works and how it can be a beneficial treatment option.

What are Invisalign Clear Aligners?

Invisalign clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses custom-made, clear plastic trays to gradually straighten teeth. These aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene, making them a popular choice for those seeking a more discreet alternative to traditional braces.

Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of aligners that are changed approximately every two weeks to gradually shift the teeth into their desired position. The aligners are designed using 3D imaging technology to ensure a precise fit and optimal results. Overall, Invisalign clear aligners can offer a convenient and effective way to achieve a straighter smile without the noticeable appearance of metal braces.

Can Invisalign Help Fix an Overbite?

An overbite is where the upper front teeth overlap significantly with the lower front teeth, causing the upper teeth to protrude further than normal. This misalignment can lead to issues with jaw pain, speech difficulties and an increased risk of tooth wear and damage over time.

If you want to fix an overbite without braces, our orthodontists can use Invisalign in combination with traditional dental elastics. The clear aligners will gradually shift the teeth into their correct position while the elastics apply gently pressure to move the jaw into alignment.

Can Invisalign Help Fix an Underbite?

The opposite of an overbite, an underbite is where the lower front teeth overlap with the upper front teeth. This misalignment and misaligned teeth can cause dental issues with chewing, speech and jaw pain if left untreated.

If the underbite isn't too severe (the lower jaw doesn't protrude too far out and the misalignment is mostly due to crooked teeth), then Invisalign can help solve the problem. However, note that if the cause of the underbite originates from the underlying jaw structure, then surgery might be needed first to fix the structure of the jaw.

Can Invisalign Help Fix a Crossbite?

A crossbite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not align properly, causing some teeth to sit inside or outside of the opposing teeth when the jaw is closed.

Invisalign clear aligners in combination with elastics can treat crossbites by moving the upper and lower teeth gradually into the correct bite position.

Is it Possible to Straighten Teeth at Home?

We do not recommend attempting to straighten teeth at home under any circumstances. Orthodontic treatment requires careful planning and monitoring by a qualified orthodontist to ensure the desired results are achieved safely and effectively. Attempting to straighten teeth at home can lead to further misalignment, bite issues and damage to the teeth or gums and cause gum disease.

One of the benefits of Invisalign clear aligners is that you don't need to visit the orthodontist as much as you would with a traditional metal brace or other types of braces. You'll only need brief appointments with your orthodontist every 10 to 12 weeks, so that they can check on your progress. And at home, all you'll need to do is switch to the new set of aligners every two weeks or so, or as directed by your orthodontist. In this sense, a good portion of your treatment will happen at home anyway!