As patients learn more about the types of orthodontic options available to them, many are asking orthodontists about options that are not as noticeable as traditional braces. However, while a treatment like Invisalign can correct a wide variety of orthodontic problems, and improvements in technology continue to broaden the spectrum of cases that can be treated with Invisalign, there remain some cases that are too complicated for Invisalign alone.
In those cases, orthodontic experts often recommend combining the old with the new: traditional appliances and/or appliances combined with Invisalign treatment.
Combining the old and the new
There are many traditional techniques, such as the use of elastic bands and different appliances that can be used in combination with Invisalign to achieve optimal results for patients.
Orthodontists may also use partial braces on some teeth that would be more difficult to move with Invisalign. However, even in those cases, patients do not have to worry about having highly visible braces on their teeth. Often, braces need to be placed only on the back or lower teeth, neither of which are very noticeable. They also use clear or ceramic braces that more closely match the color of natural teeth, making them less visible.
Invisalign cases that may require the use of some braces include severe rotation or tipping of the teeth or long-distance root movement of the teeth. Rotation is when a tooth has rotated to the point of facing to the side instead of aligning properly with surrounding teeth.
The roots of the teeth must be straight, just as the crowns of the teeth must be straight. Elastic bands are often used in conjunction with Invisalign to correct overbite, underbite, or to help with bite alignment and correction. In those cases, transparent attachments are attached to the teeth to provide stable mechanics to which the rubber bands can be attached.
By using some braces and elastic bands in combination with Invisalign for more severe cases, orthodontists are sure to get the best results.
Invisalign and Orthognathic Surgery
Orthodontists also use Invisalign with patients requiring orthognathic surgery. Orthognathic surgery involves surgically moving elements of the facial skeleton to achieve a proper anatomic and functional appearance in patients with abnormalities of facial structure and growth that cannot be treated effectively with braces alone.
There have been cases where orthodontists have used Invisalign to align teeth correctly prior to surgery to better prepare teeth for the surgical procedure.