Limitations of Invisalign for orthodontic treatments

Invisalign doesn’t have the same force and capabilities to move teeth like the traditional metal braces. Therefore, complex orthodontic treatments or complicated cases that require significant movement of teeth may need braces to achieve a successful treatment.

Below are some cases where Invisalign may not correct an orthodontic issue

Tooth Shape

Patients with short, round, pegged teeth or those with severe tips may not allow the aligner to get a good grip. Therefore, the aligner isn’t effective at moving your teeth into the desired position.

Tooth Position

When a mouth is overcrowded, a tooth may rotate to fit. Invisalign is unable to move them into the desired position. Teeth can also tilt forward or back to fit in a crowded mouth. If the tilt is over 45 degrees, Invisalign will struggle to pull the tooth up into the right place.

Large Gaps Between Teeth

Whether there is just one gap between two teeth or several gaps a patient would like closed, Invisalign can only reliably close up to 6mm of space per arch (top teeth or lower teeth).

Midline Movements

Some patients have front teeth that don’t match their midline. This is the imaginary line down the middle of the face. Invisalign may correct a midline discrepancy to the left or right per arch but anything more complicated may need to be treated with braces.  

Previous Dental Work

Some prior dental work can prevent patients from using Invisalign. This may include a dental bridge can make it impossible for using Invisalign. Porcelain veneers or crowns may not be able to use attachments with their Invisalign because they can’t bond to the surface.