Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Invisalign® Clear Aligners

How can we help you?

Asking questions about your dental needs is essential. The more informed you are, the better you can understand your oral health and why we recommend certain procedures.

Here are some questions about our services that patients ask most often. If you don't find the answer you need here, don't hesitate to call Thompson Dental at (949) 558-0111.

Invisalign® Clear Aligners

Invisalign clear aligners can correct most orthodontic issues that traditionally required metal braces. Here's how specific alignment problems affect your oral health and appearance—and how Invisalign addresses them:

  • Crowded Teeth —When teeth overlap due to insufficient jaw space, brushing and flossing become difficult, creating areas where plaque accumulates. This increases your risk for cavities and gum disease. Invisalign gradually creates space, moving teeth into proper alignment where they're easier to clean and maintain.
  • Gapped Teeth — Spaces between teeth can trap food particles and leave gum tissue exposed and prone to inflammation. Large gaps also affect appearance and may impact speech. Invisalign closes these spaces systematically, protecting gum tissue and creating a more uniform smile.
  • Overbite — When upper teeth overlap lower teeth excessively, the condition can cause premature wear on lower teeth, jaw pain, and difficulty biting certain foods. Invisalign repositions teeth to create proper vertical overlap, reducing strain on your jaw joints and protecting enamel from excessive wear.
  • Underbite — Lower teeth that protrude past upper teeth create an unbalanced bite that stresses jaw joints and makes chewing inefficient. This misalignment can also affect facial appearance. Invisalign moves lower teeth back or upper teeth forward to establish proper bite alignment.
  • Crossbite — When upper teeth sit inside lower teeth on one or both sides, uneven wear patterns develop, and jaw growth can be affected. Invisalign corrects tooth position to establish a proper upper-to-lower tooth relationship, preventing long-term damage.

Ready to see if Invisalign can help you? Call Thompson Dental at (949) 558-0111 to schedule your consultation. We serve Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Mission Viejo, and South Orange County.

Ready to book an appointment?