Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment because it is discreet, convenient, and effective at moving teeth. However, some patients may notice that their teeth do not seem to be shifting at all! If that happens to you, what might be responsible for the problem, and what can you do to get your treatment back on track? This blog post provides some helpful information.
Some of Your Teeth Are Stubborn
When your dentist planned your Invisalign treatment, they used sophisticated software that accounted for many factors that can affect the way teeth move. However, everyone’s mouth is different, and some teeth turn out to be more stubborn than predicted! For example, the lateral incisors (the teeth next to your two front teeth) tend to be more difficult to move than others.
If your dentist notices that some of your teeth are not progressing like they should, they may use special attachments to encourage your teeth to start moving in the right direction.
Your Teeth Are Colliding
In some cases, teeth are so overcrowded that they simply do not have enough room to properly move when Invisalign aligners apply pressure to them. If your dentist suspects that might be a problem in your case, they may recommend that you undergo a procedure known as interproximal reduction (IPR).
While IPR might sound a little intimidating, it is nothing to be concerned about. Your dentist will simply remove a tiny bit of enamel from the sides of your teeth to create more space between them, allowing them to respond more effectively to orthodontia.
You Are Not Wearing Your Aligners Enough
In order for Invisalign to be effective, its aligners should be worn for 20 – 22 hours each day. Do you sometimes fall short of that requirement? If so, your teeth may move much more slowly than predicted. Some people find it helpful to use an app on their smartphone to help them keep track of how long they wear their aligners each day.
Have you observed that your teeth are not moving like they should with Invisalign? Your dentist may be able to figure out what is causing the problem and help you get things back on track!
Meet the Practice
The team at the Center for Contemporary Dentistry is proud to offer Invisalign to members of our community. We are always ready to help patients navigate concerns that come up during their teeth-straightening journey. If you have questions about Invisalign and how you can enjoy successful treatment, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact us at 603-556-7047.