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Many of our patients at Karen Harriman, DDS believe that having straight teeth is only for aesthetic purposes, and while they are correct that you will get a beautiful smile with orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign, straight teeth will more importantly ensure a healthy mouth in the long term.
Our patient, Connor, had several dental issues characterized by crowding and traumatic occlusion (when the teeth don’t come together properly when biting), especially in the anterior region of his mouth. Dental crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the mouth for all the teeth to correctly align so the teeth overlap to fit within the dental arch. The traumatic occlusion meant that, over time, Connor’s misaligned bite caused excessive wear on his teeth and even chipped his teeth. For Connor, these issues were affecting both the aesthetics of his smile as well as its ability to function properly.
Invisalign as a Solution for Crowding and Occlusion
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that offers a discreet and more comfortable way to straighten teeth than traditional braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable trays that gradually move teeth into their correct positions. This treatment option was a perfect fit for Connor's lifestyle, as he was able to remove it when eating so it didn’t affect his ability to eat any foods that he usually enjoyed. Dr. Harriman scanned Connor’s teeth using our advanced iTero technology and designed a treatment plan that remedied both of the issues Connor was facing. His treatment plan involved six months of Invisalign treatment and over this time, his teeth gradually shifted into their proper alignment to create a more functional bite.
While Invisalign addressed the primary issue of tooth alignment, Connor still had some cosmetic concerns in regard to his chipped teeth. Fortunately, Dr. Harriman was able to treat this at our dental office in Falls Church. Dr. Harriman used composite resin (a tooth-colored material) to bond with the teeth and effectively conceal the imperfections and restore the tooth’s appearance. Connor also underwent an enameloplasty, a procedure that involves smoothing out minor chips and irregularities in tooth enamel which helped him achieve a more even and polished look.
It’s amazing how within 6 months, Dr. Harriman and her team were able to provide Connor with a newfound confidence and improved dental health with the right dental treatments. If you're facing dental challenges, don't hesitate to consult with your Falls Church dentist to understand your options.