Is it possible for Invisalign to work this fast? (Photo)

Question

The plan is to do 7 extractions. 3 wisdom teeth and four molars to make room for my front teeth to move back. Once the extractions are done I have quite a few cavities needing to be filled, and a cleaning. Once all that is done he says we can start the Invisalign journey. He guesses that it should take between 8-12 months. From the stories I have read, this seems too fast for the severity of my crowding. Can anyone explain how it could possibly be this fast?!

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

Hello there,Having reviewed your above photo, I see that your crowding is severe, but CAN be treated with Invisalign.  I would opt to remove the first premolar on the upper left and the first premolar on the upper right.  Removing these two premolars would create space to greatly relieve crowding of your anterior teeth.  Your bottom teeth would easily re-align using Invisalign for 8-12 months, but your top teeth would take about 2 years to come into alignment in my estimation.  I've had cases very similar to yours in the past, so I would love to take your case on, but I generally don't take Invisalign cases from out-of-town because I have issues with patient compliance.  I wish you the best in your journey for a better smile.

Brad Lockhart, DDS · Answer

In my office, you wouldn't even be a candidate for Invisalign treatment. The amount of crowding you have is rather severe and is the result of severely underdeveloped dental arches. Invisalign will NOT develop dental arches which means you will not fix the cause of your crooked teeth. If you do not fix your severely underdeveloped dental arches you will have to extract multiple teeth to make everything fit. You will end up with a very narrow smile, a compromised airway (which will more than likely lead to a sleep breathing disorder), compromised facial aesthetics and possible TMJ Dysfunction.I would strongly recommend another opinion from someone who understands orthodontics and its effects on facial aesthetics, airway health and TMJ health. You have MUCH more to consider than simply straightening your teeth.Good luck!

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