Understanding Dental Pathologies Treated by Invisalign®

9 January 2025 | Dr. Frédéric Lavoie

Invisalign® technology, with its transparent, removable aligners, has improved orthodontics by offering a discreet, comfortable alternative to traditional braces. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it is also a therapeutic tool capable of correcting a wide range of dental pathologies.

Malocclusions: Invisalign®’s Playground 

Invisalign® excels in the treatment of malocclusions. These common dental problems of misaligned teeth can have different origins. They can be due to genetics, dental trauma or recurrent oral habits, such as thumb-sucking.

The main malocclusions corrected by Invisalign® are:

• Teeth are in a good position, but there is overlap or gaps between them.
• Upper teeth are too far forward in relation to lower teeth (occlusal bite).
• Lower teeth are too far forward in relation to upper teeth (mandibular prognathism).

The Therapeutic Benefits of Invisalign®

Correcting a malocclusion with Invisalign® is much more than achieving a perfect, straight smile. It has numerous benefits for the patient’s oral health and quality of life.

• Improved jaw function: By aligning the teeth, Invisalign® makes it easier to chew food. It also reduces muscular tension in the mouth.
• Reduced risk of cavities: Well-aligned teeth are easier to clean. This reduces the risk of cavities and periodontal disease.
• Improved pronunciation: Some malocclusions can lead to speech difficulties. 

What Dental Problems Cannot be Treated by Invisalign®?

While Invisalign® is a highly effective tool for correcting many dental pathologies, it is not suitable for all cases. Some malocclusions require more complex orthodontic treatment or surgery. It is therefore essential to consult an orthodontist to determine which treatment is best suited to your situation.

Cases Where Invisalign® May be Limited:

• Severe malocclusions: Traditional orthodontic treatment may be more appropriate for very severe malocclusions.
• Major dental anomalies: Severely displaced or missing teeth may require further treatment.
• Severe temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems: Surgery may be required if the joint connecting the skull to the lower jaw is affected.

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is always a good idea. Brushing your teeth regularly, combined with consistent oral care habits such as daily flossing, will prevent tooth decay. Using fluoride toothpaste will prevent tooth sensitivity and bad breath.

How to Choose the Right Treatment?

The choice of orthodontic treatment depends on a number of factors including the nature of the malocclusion, the patient’s age, expectations and constraints. To choose the most appropriate treatment, it’s essential to consult an orthodontist. Their role will be to carry out a complete examination of your mouth, taking dental impressions and X-rays of your teeth. They will then make a precise diagnosis and propose a dental treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Invisalign® is an effective orthodontic solution for correcting many dental health problems. This treatment combines the benefits of cutting-edge technology with the personalized care of an orthodontist. The result is a customized solution that improves your smile and your oral health.