08
Nov
Invisalign for Crowded Teeth: What You Need to Know
At Positive Image Dental in Devonshire, Bermuda, Drs. Ian Campbell, Christopher Allington, Lara Loescher, and Faraz specialize in treating crowded teeth using Invisalign. If you’re considering this treatment, you may have questions about the causes of overcrowding, the benefits of Invisalign, and the long-term effects of leaving crowded teeth untreated.
Why do teeth become crowded?
Teeth can become crowded for several reasons:
- Genetics: Family history often plays a significant role. If your parents have crowded teeth, you’ll likely experience the same issue.
- Jaw Size: If the jaw is too small to accommodate all teeth, overcrowding occurs as teeth try to fit into the available space.
- Early Tooth Loss: Losing a baby tooth too soon can lead to the misalignment of permanent teeth as they erupt.
- Impacted Teeth: Teeth that are unable to properly emerge due to lack of space can cause surrounding teeth to shift and become crowded.
What are the long-term effects of untreated, crowded teeth?
Ignoring crowded teeth can lead to several dental problems, including:
- Tooth Decay: Crowded teeth are more challenging to clean, making it easier for plaque to build up and lead to cavities.
- Gum Disease: Difficulty in maintaining proper oral hygiene can result in gum inflammation and disease over time.
- Jaw Problems: Misalignment can cause jaw discomfort, pain, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Wear and Tear: Crowded teeth can lead to uneven wear on teeth surfaces, resulting in additional dental issues.
Common Questions About Invisalign for Crowded Teeth
How does Invisalign work for crowded teeth?
Invisalign works by using personally crafted clear aligners that are custom-made for you. These aligners are crafted to gently and gradually shift your teeth into their proper alignment. Each set of aligners in your series will generally be worn for about two weeks before you progress to the next set.
Is Invisalign painful?
While switching to a new aligner may cause slight discomfort, it’s generally less painful than traditional braces. The discomfort usually subsides quickly as your teeth adjust.
How long does treatment take?
The length of treatment varies based on the severity of your crowding. On average, Invisalign treatment takes about 12 to 18 months.
Will eating and drinking become difficult when the aligners are on?
You should remove your aligners when you want to eat or drink (drinks that are not water) to avoid damaging or staining your aligners.
What happens if I don’t wear my aligners as prescribed?
Failing to wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours a day can prolong your treatment time and may lead to less effective results.
Get Started with Your Invisalign Journey
If you’re struggling with crowded teeth, consider Invisalign an effective and discreet solution. The team at Positive Image Dental is ready to help you achieve a straighter smile. To learn more about how Invisalign can benefit you, contact us at (441) 292-2312.
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The Positive Image Dental team comprises three doctors:
Ian Campbell, DMD graduated
from Saltus Grammar School, Mount Allison University, and McGill University Dental School. He has
over 40 years of experience in dentistry and is reputed for providing high-quality dental care in
Bermuda. Dr. Campbell is passionate about lifelong learning and staying abreast of the latest trends
in dentistry.
Christopher Allington, DMD is
an alumnus of the University of Queens, McGill Dental School, and University of Connecticut. He has
been practicing in Bermuda for over 12 years and is a member, past president, and chair of the
Bermuda Dental Association and Bermuda Dental Board. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General
Dentistry and International Congress of Oral Implantology and is registered for fellowship in the
International Association of Orthodontics.
Dr. Lara Loescher BDS, MFDS
RCSEd is a graduate of Bermuda High School and University of Bristol, a member of the Royal
College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, and is completing a Masters in Aesthetic and Restorative
dentistry. She has been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry, including Invisalign, for over 13
years and is interested in diabetes management.
Dr. Faraz, BSc, BDS, MA, is
passionate about all aspects of high-quality dentistry, especially endodontics and cosmetic
dentistry. His enthusiasm for cutting-edge technologies and techniques keeps him grounded in
minimally invasive dentistry.
Dr. Faraz earned his doctorate in dentistry from King’s College London in 2011 after earning a bachelor’s degree in Human Sciences. He worked in Oxfordshire for ten years before moving to London to work full-time at his family practice. Dr. Faraz routinely pursues additional training to improve his skill in rebuilding exceptionally natural-looking teeth.
He gains tremendous satisfaction from supporting anxious patients in overcoming their dental phobias via his passion and patience, restoring confidence in their oral health. Dr. Faraz looks forward to serving you with all your needs while ensuring your trust is always in safe hands.