Invisalign emerged over 20 years ago as a leading solution for correcting a wide array of malocclusions in the field of orthodontics.
Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Michael Burke have used this advanced technology to provide personalized care for teenagers and adults with great success at Burke & Redford Orthodontists in Temecula and Lake Elsinore, California.
What is Malocclusion?
A malocclusion is a misalignment or incorrect relation between the teeth of the two dental arches when they contact as the jaws close. It is a deviation from the normal occlusion, affecting how the upper and lower teeth fit together during biting and chewing.
Malocclusions can range from mild to severe and are categorized into three main classes based on the positioning of the maxilla (upper jaw) and the mandible (lower jaw) relative to each other:
Class I Malocclusion: This is the most common type, where the bite is in a generally good and balanced alignment. While the bite may be normal, the individual teeth may be misaligned, crowded, or spaced.
Class II Malocclusion: Often referred to as an overbite, this occurs when the upper jaw and/or teeth severely overlap the lower jaw and teeth. It’s divided into two subcategories, Class II Division 1 where the upper teeth are protruded, and Class II Division 2 where the upper front teeth are tilted backward.
Class III Malocclusion: Known as an underbite, this condition is characterized by the lower jaw and/or teeth protruding beyond the upper jaw, causing the lower front teeth to set forward of the upper front teeth.
Malocclusions can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, developmental issues, poor dental habits in childhood such as thumb sucking, or trauma to the jaw.
These misalignments can lead to a range of problems, including difficulties in chewing and speaking, increased risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease due to challenges in maintaining oral hygiene, increased risk of tooth wear, and esthetic concerns that can affect self-esteem.
Treatment for malocclusion aims to correct the alignment of the teeth and jaws, improve oral function, and enhance facial esthetics. Options can vary widely depending on the severity and type of malocclusion and may include orthodontic interventions such as expanders, bite corrector devices, braces or Invisalign, and in some severe cases, orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery.
Dr. Ryan Redford will provide a comprehensive evaluation during your consultation to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for the best result.
Let us take a closer look at the malocclusion problems that are best treated with Invisalign, showcasing how this innovative approach can lead to healthier, more beautiful smiles.
Mild to Moderate Crowding
Crowded teeth not only affect your smile’s appearance but can also complicate oral hygiene, leading to plaque accumulation and gum disease. Invisalign effectively addresses this by re-arranging the position of teeth through strategic movements, allowing teeth to align properly.
Spacing Issues
Gaps between teeth, whether due to genetics, small size/shape of teeth, missing teeth, or other factors, can detract from your smile and pose risks to your gum health. Invisalign closes these gaps by gently moving the teeth closer together, resulting in a more uniform and esthetically pleasing arrangement.
Overbite (Deep Bite)
An overbite can cause wear on the lower teeth. Invisalign corrects overbites by realigning the upper and lower teeth to ensure proper overlap, reducing the risk of further dental issues.
Overjet (Front-to-back “overbite”)
Excess horizontal space between the upper and lower front teeth can affect speaking and result in a “lip trap” (the lower lip being stuck in this space). Invisalign, in conjunction with elastics or special bite correctors, can reduce the amount of excess overjet present.
Underbite
An underbite can impair chewing and speaking as well as lead to unfavorable tooth wear. Invisalign’s approach to treating underbites typically involves elastic wear to move the lower front teeth back while bringing the upper teeth forward, improving function and facial esthetics.
Crossbite
Untreated crossbites can cause tooth wear and shifting of the lower jaw to one side while biting down. This can lead to the appearance of facial asymmetry. Invisalign corrects crossbites by moving the affected upper teeth outward and the lower teeth inward, ensuring that the upper and lower teeth meet correctly. Invisalign works to move the teeth, not the jaws, however. So, if the source of the crossbite is a narrow jaw, an expander will typically be needed in conjunction with the clear aligners.
Open Bite
An open bite is characterized by a vertical space between the edges of the upper and lower front teeth when biting. Open bites can affect eating and speech and are traditionally very challenging to correct without surgical intervention. Invisalign treats open bites by applying controlled force to the teeth that need to move vertically into proper position, effectively closing the bite over time.
Mild to Moderate Malocclusions
General misalignments that do not fall into severe categories can typically be corrected with Invisalign, enhancing oral health and smile appearance. There are two movements that can be challenging for clear aligners to predictably correct: rotations and intrusion/extrusion. Orthodontists have certain techniques to address these difficult movements if aligners are not quite getting the job done.
Teeth Rotation
Rotated teeth can undermine a straight smile and make cleaning difficult. Invisalign aligners are designed to exert the proper forces to gradually rotate teeth into their correct positions, resolving rotation issues.
Intrusion and Extrusion
Invisalign can address teeth that are either too high or too low in the jawline by moving them vertically into alignment, a process that not only improves aesthetics but also ensures a better bite.
Why Patients Consistently Choose Burke & Redford Orthodontists
Choosing Invisalign treatment at Burke & Redford Orthodontists means benefiting from the expertise of Dr. Ryan Redford and Dr. Michael Burke who combine their extensive knowledge with the latest in orthodontic technology.
Here are a few reasons why patients opt for Invisalign under their care:
Personalized Treatment Plans: Every Invisalign treatment is customized to meet the unique needs of the individual, ensuring optimal results. If there are certain tooth movements that cannot be achieved with aligners alone, they have options and techniques to ensure a high-quality result.
Advanced Impression Technology: Utilizing state-of-the-art digital scanners to create a precise impression of the teeth so that the aligners fit perfectly.
Comfort and Convenience: The removability of Invisalign aligners offers an unparalleled convenience in orthodontic care, allowing patients to eat, brush, and floss with ease.
Discreet Treatment: Invisalign’s clear aligners are virtually invisible, providing a discreet treatment option for teens and adults alike.
Request a Consultation with the Best Orthodontists
Invisalign has revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering an effective, comfortable, and discreet solution for a wide range of malocclusion issues.
At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, Dr. Redford and Dr. Burke’s dedication to providing personalized, advanced orthodontic care ensures that each patient achieves the healthiest, most beautiful smile possible. Call (951) 699-8011 to Request a Consultation Today.
