What Can Invisalign Fix? A Westbury Orthodontist Explains

If you’re looking into Invisalign treatment in Westbury, you’re not alone. Many local patients choose this modern solution to correct dental issues with comfort and discretion. Whether you’re wondering about Invisalign cost vs braces or simply curious how much aligners are, understanding what Invisalign can fix is the first step toward a more confident smile.

What Dental Problems Can Invisalign Correct?

Invisalign isn’t just about achieving a straighter smile, it’s also designed to correct a wide range of functional dental issues. Patients often choose it over traditional braces because it’s discreet, removable, and highly effective for many mild to moderate concerns. Whether you’re dealing with crowding, spacing, or bite issues, Invisalign can help bring your smile, and bite, into alignment.

Crowded Teeth

Dental crowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in your mouth for all your teeth to fit naturally. This can lead to overlapping, twisting, or teeth being pushed forward or backward.

If you’re asking, “Can aligners fix crowded teeth?” yes, in many cases, they can. Invisalign clear aligners gently shift teeth into place over time using custom trays designed for your unique smile. However, severe crowding may still require traditional braces for more complex movement.

Local patients also often ask “How much are aligners for teeth?” The aligners’ cost depends on how crowded your teeth are and how long treatment will take, which your Westbury orthodontist can explain during your consultation.

Gaps Between Teeth

Spacing issues, like noticeable gaps between your teeth, can impact both appearance and oral health. Food can get trapped, and the spacing can affect how your teeth come together when biting or chewing.

Invisalign for teeth gaps works by applying gentle pressure to gradually close spaces between teeth. If you’re in Westbury and exploring clear aligners, know that they are effective and discreet for mild to moderate gaps. You’ll likely wear Invisalign for several months to over a year, depending on the severity, so you may be wondering, “How long to wear Invisalign for spacing?” That answer varies, but your provider will offer a clear timeline after assessing your needs.

Overbite, Underbite, and Crossbite 

Bite problems affect the way your upper and lower teeth come together, and they can cause issues with chewing, jaw strain, and even facial appearance.

• Overbite happens when the upper teeth stick out too far over the lower teeth.
• Underbite is when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
• Crossbite means some top teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down.

Can Invisalign fix mild overbite? Yes, in many cases, it can. It can also treat underbite and crossbite issues when the misalignment is not too severe. Your orthodontist may recommend crossbite correction with Invisalign or combine it with attachments or elastics for improved results. 

Mild Jaw Misalignment and Asymmetry

Not all jaw asymmetry needs surgery. If your asymmetry is caused by dental alignment issues rather than skeletal imbalance, Invisalign may help improve facial symmetry by repositioning your teeth and bite.

This makes people ask, “Can braces fix an asymmetrical face?” or “Can Invisalign?” If the misalignment is mild and dental in nature, Invisalign may be the right solution. For moderate cases, it may also improve jaw asymmetry by guiding teeth and jaw movement over time, without the need for metal brackets.

When Invisalign May Not Be the Right Choice

While Invisalign offers a convenient and effective way to treat many dental issues, it’s not always the best option for everyone. In more complex or severe cases, traditional braces, or even surgery, may be more effective. Understanding these limitations helps set realistic expectations for your orthodontic journey.

Severe Tooth Rotation or Intrusion

Tooth rotation occurs when a tooth turns out of alignment. Intrusion refers to a tooth that’s pushed too far into the gumline. If you’re dealing with significant rotation or intrusion, clear aligners may not generate enough force for full correction.

In these cases, your orthodontist may recommend traditional braces. Many patients weigh the braces vs Invisalign price, especially when comparing outcomes. It’s important to note that while Invisalign is often more discreet, braces may be more effective for complex movements. The cost of braces vs Invisalign depends largely on case severity and treatment duration.

Still wondering, “How long do you wear braces?” Most patients wear them for 18–24 months, though that varies.

Gum Recession or Periodontal Problems

If you’ve experienced gum recession or have a history of gum disease, Invisalign may not be your first step. Aligners apply pressure that can worsen these issues if the gums aren’t healthy.

You might be wondering, “Can Invisalign cause receding gums?” or if braces cause gum recession too. While neither treatment directly causes recession, they can contribute if existing periodontal problems are present. Retainers may also cause concern for some, “Can retainers cause gum recession?”, especially if not fitted properly.

If gum health is compromised, your Westbury orthodontist may refer you to a periodontist before starting Invisalign treatment.

Orthognathic or Surgical Cases

Orthognathic surgery is used to correct severe jaw misalignments that affect both function and appearance. Invisalign and braces can’t move the bones themselves, so if your condition requires skeletal correction, surgery may be needed.

But what exactly does “orthognathic” mean? It refers to procedures that reposition the jaw bones. If your orthodontist explains your case involves jawbone structure, you may hear terms like “define orthognathic” or “orthognathic treatment plan.”

In these cases, Invisalign can still be used as part of the post-surgical phase, but not as the sole treatment. Severe bite issues, gum recession from braces, and skeletal misalignments often require a more involved approach.

Why Choose Invisalign in Westbury?

Choosing the right provider makes a difference, especially when it comes to orthodontic treatment. At Brush Hollow Orthodontics, located conveniently at 959 Brush Hollow Road Westbury NY, we help teens and adults achieve straighter smiles with custom Invisalign plans. Whether you’re comparing Invisalign cost vs braces or looking for a local team you can trust, our experienced Westbury orthodontist team is here to guide you.

Personalized Consultations at Brush Hollow Orthodontics

Every smile is unique, and so is your treatment plan. At Brush Hollow Orthodontics, our team takes the time to evaluate your bite, dental history, and goals before recommending a solution. Whether you’re just exploring options or ready to start, you’ll receive expert guidance on Invisalign treatment in Westbury at our office, 959 Brush Hollow Road Westbury NY 11590.

Experience with Adults and Teens

We regularly help both teens and adults find solutions tailored to their age, lifestyle, and alignment needs. Teenagers often ask about monthly braces stages, while adults may be more curious about Invisalign alternatives for adults or how subtle treatment can fit into their work routine.

So, how long do you need Invisalign? That depends on your case, but many patients complete treatment in 12 to 18 months with consistent wear and checkups at our Westbury office.

Clear Aligners + Whitening: Aesthetic Benefits

One of the biggest reasons patients choose Invisalign? You can straighten your teeth and enhance your smile’s brightness at the same time. Many people ask, “Can I whiten my teeth with Invisalign?”, and yes, whitening products can often be used safely alongside your aligners, or in the trays between wears.

From bleaching teeth with Invisalign to teeth whitening after Invisalign, we’ll walk you through the right approach so your final smile is both straight and radiant. This aesthetic flexibility is why many local patients prefer clear braces + whitening over traditional metal options.

Invisalign vs Braces: What’s Better for Specific Problems?

While Invisalign and traditional braces both aim to align your teeth and improve your bite, they have key differences in cost, treatment approach, and suitability for certain dental issues. At Brush Hollow Orthodontics, we help Westbury patients compare options like Invisalign treatment in Westbury and traditional braces in Westbury to find what’s best for their goals.

Which is Cheaper or More Effective?

One of the most common questions we hear is, “What is cheaper, Invisalign or braces?” The answer depends on the complexity of your case, how long treatment takes, and the type of aligners or braces used.

• Are braces cheaper than Invisalign? In general, traditional braces tend to cost slightly less upfront.
• But for many patients, Invisalign cost vs braces cost balances out when considering fewer appointments, shorter visits, and removable trays.
• When considering braces vs Invisalign price, we also factor in comfort, appearance, and lifestyle compatibility.

We’ll go over both options during your consultation so you can make a fully informed decision.

Treatment Duration Comparison

Another big concern is how long treatment will take. Whether you’re in school, working, or attending events, knowing the timeline helps with planning.

• How long will I need to wear braces? On average, 18 to 24 months.
• How long do you wear Invisalign? Many patients finish in 12 to 18 months, though complex cases may take longer.
• The average braces’ duration can be longer for issues like severe crowding or bite correction, while Invisalign often works more efficiently for mild to moderate cases.

Your Westbury orthodontist will tailor the timeline based on your exact needs and lifestyle preferences.

FAQs About Invisalign Treatment in Westbury

Can Invisalign fix an asymmetrical smile?

Yes, Invisalign can improve an asymmetrical smile caused by dental misalignment, especially if the issue stems from uneven tooth positioning rather than jaw structure.

Is Invisalign cheaper than braces in Westbury?

Not always. The cost of Invisalign treatment in Westbury depends on your case complexity. Sometimes braces are more affordable, but Invisalign may save time and offer lifestyle benefits.

How long will I wear Invisalign for crowded teeth?

Most patients wear Invisalign for crowded teeth correction over 12 to 18 months. Severe cases may require more time or a switch to traditional braces.

Can I whiten my teeth while using Invisalign?

Yes, many patients whiten their teeth during Invisalign treatment. Ask about whitening with Invisalign to find safe options that won’t interfere with your aligners.

Are aligners effective for bite correction?

Yes. Clear aligners are effective for bite correction in mild to moderate overbite, underbite, or crossbite cases. Severe bite issues may need braces or surgery.

Ready to Start Invisalign Treatment in Westbury?

At Brush Hollow Orthodontics, we make it easy to straighten your smile with personalized Invisalign care. Whether you’re comparing aligners vs braces or wondering how much treatment costs, our team is here to help you feel confident every step of the way. Visit us at 959 Brush Hollow Road Westbury NY or schedule your consultation today to find out if Invisalign is right for you.