This treatment example shows how crowding can be gently corrected with aligners.
Anonymized presentation of a real treatment published professionally by our practice.
Crowded, overlapping teeth can be discreetly corrected today – with clear aligners that are barely noticeable and comfortable to wear in everyday life. The following treatment example from our practice shows how narrow dental arches can be harmoniously expanded in just a few months.
The Initial Situation
A 36-year-old patient came to us wanting a more attractive, even smile. Her dental arches in both the upper and lower jaw were significantly too narrow, causing the teeth to be crowded. Visible braces were not an option for her – clear aligners were therefore the suitable solution.
Treatment
The aligners were planned and fabricated entirely in our practice. Over approximately seven months, the dental arches were gradually widened and the crowding resolved. The patient changed the aligners herself at regular intervals – conveniently and without visible appliances.
The Result
After seven months, the teeth stood evenly in harmoniously formed dental arches, the bite was stable and balanced. The smile appeared noticeably more open and even – exactly the goal the patient had come to us with.
Background for Those Interested
How the digital workflow of an in-office aligner treatment works in detail is described in our professional publication The Digital Workflow in In-Office Aligner Therapy. Learn more about treatment with clear aligners on our expertise page.
- Schupp, W., Funke, J., & Haubrich, J. (2020). Der digitale Workflow in der In-Office-Alignertherapie. Informationen aus Orthodontie & Kieferorthopädie, 52(4), 289–300. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-1241-9967
- Kravitz, N. D., Kusnoto, B., BeGole, E., Obrez, A., & Agran, B. (2009). How well does Invisalign work? A prospective clinical study evaluating the efficacy of tooth movement with Invisalign. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 135(1), 27–35. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajodo.2007.05.018
- Rossini, G., Parrini, S., Castroflorio, T., Deregibus, A., & Debernardi, C. L. (2015). Efficacy of clear aligners in controlling orthodontic tooth movement: A systematic review. The Angle Orthodontist, 85(5), 881–889. https://doi.org/10.2319/061614-436.1
Frequently Asked Questions About Crowding and Aligner Treatment
How long does correction of crowding with aligners take?
In the presented case, the crowding was corrected in approximately seven months. The actual duration depends on the severity of the crowding, compliance in wearing the aligners, and individual anatomical conditions. Mild to moderate crowding can often be treated in six to twelve months.
Are clear aligners as effective as fixed braces for crowding?
For mild to moderate crowding, modern aligners are a recognized and effective alternative to fixed braces. In cases of very pronounced crowding or complex bite situations, fixed appliances or combination treatment may be more appropriate. What is suitable in each individual case is determined after a thorough diagnosis.
Does a tooth need to be extracted to resolve crowding?
Not necessarily. In many cases, sufficient space can be created through gentle widening of the dental arches without having to remove teeth. Whether extraction is necessary depends on the available space in the jaw and is individually assessed before treatment begins.
Does the result remain stable after treatment?
After completing the correction, stabilization is important to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original position. For this, a retainer (fixed or removable) is used. With consistent retention, the result remains stable long-term.
Who is a good candidate for aligner treatment for crowding?
Generally suitable are adolescents with completed tooth eruption and adults with mild to moderate crowding who prefer a discreet treatment. Prerequisites are healthy gums and reliable wear of the aligners (approximately 22 hours daily). Whether aligners are right for you will be determined during a personal consultation.
Dr. Julia Steinmaier
Specialist in orthodontics. Owner of JUST KFO in Cologne, sought-after speaker and author who regularly appears in professional publications and media.
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