Invisalign Treatable Cases: Gap Teeth
Invisalign Treatable Cases: Gap Teeth

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces. It uses a custom, clear tray that gently straightens teeth into the perfect position. Unlike braces, Invisalign is nearly invisible and can be discreetly worn 24/7. It can treat multiple cases, from overcrowding to crossbite and more. An Invisalign consultation with Northern Virginia Orthodontics can help determine if Invisalign is right for you. 

Invisalign Treatable Cases: Gap Teeth

Gap teeth are one common issue that Invisalign can treat. While fashion labels and marketing campaigns have popularized the image of gap teeth, gap teeth are a serious issue. Gap teeth can cause several problems, from tooth decay to gum disease. Having a space between one’s front two teeth is the most common form of gap teeth, called midline diastema, but gap teeth can happen anywhere in one’s mouth.  Sometimes in rare cases, there can be a gap between each tooth. 

What Problems Do Gap Teeth Create?

Gap teeth allow for food buildup, which, in turn, creates plaque buildup. This buildup can create cavities, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, gap teeth create uneven pressure on teeth when chewing. This inconsistent pressure results in uneven wear & tear among teeth. In other words, some teeth will decay faster than others, so people with gap teeth might destroy and lose some of their teeth if the issue is not fixed. 

How Do Gap Teeth Affect the Jaw Bone?

Gap teeth affect the alveolar bone, or the bone that houses the roots of one’s teeth, by weakening it. If teeth are spaced too far out, the alveolar bone will not be stimulated, which results in bone loss. Stimulation of the alveolar bone is important because stimulation, such as chewing and biting, strengthens the bone. If the alveolar bone is not stimulated, it becomes weak, so it cannot hold the roots of one’s teeth anymore, resulting in tooth loss. Luckily, Invisalign can prevent these issues by fixing gap teeth.

How Does Invisalign Work To Correct Gap Teeth?

The Invisalign process is very similar to traditional braces. Both techniques focus on straightening teeth by slowly moving your teeth into the correct position in your mouth. Unlike braces, Invisalign uses plastic trays instead of hard metal wires to move your teeth gradually. Invisalign uses a number of custom plastic trays to reshape your mouth. Invisalign does not rely on bonding, where resin is used to fill teeth gaps. Instead, Invisalign allows a natural correction of the gaps through custom retainers. As you advance in your Invisalign journey, the gaps will become smaller with each new set of retainers. 

Will Invisalign Work on Larger Gaps?

Invisalign can work on any size gap, but more significant gaps require a longer treatment process. Depending on the size of the gap and its position, an orthodontist might also apply a composite, or a tooth-colored filling, to parts of your teeth so that the teeth will move in the correct direction. Everyone’s process is unique, so it is important to consult with an orthodontist, so they can make sure that Invisalign is right for you. Our team of healthcare professionals at Northern Virginia Orthodontics can help you find the right treatment plan.

Why Choose Invisalign?

Traditional braces are uncomfortable and unappealing to most adults because chunky metal wires and bright rubber bands are synonymous with youth. Most adults do not want to draw attention to their braces because they fear that traditional braces might make them look goofy or childish.  These fears leave adults postponing treatment in a sacrifice for vanity. Luckily, Invisalign eliminates these issues. Invisalign retainers can straighten your teeth without changing your appearance! These clear trays will subtly straighten your teeth without needing chunky metal, bright rubber bands, or constant orthodontic check-ups. Better yet, Invisalign is just as effective as traditional braces. Learn more about Invisalign For Kids with NVO.

Get A Perfect Smile With NVO

Invisalign is a revolutionary new way to straighten your teeth! Invisalign can fix teeth gaps of any size without the bulkiness of traditional braces. Gap teeth can cause cavities, tooth decay, tooth loss, bone decay, and even gum disease. It is important to fix gap teeth so that you can smile strongly and often. Book a free Invisalign consultation today and begin the Invisalign journey today with Northern Virginia Orthodontics!