Invisalign clear aligners can be a life-changing decision, but many individuals are afraid that if they have some dental issues, such as missing teeth, they will not be a good candidate. If you’re wondering the same thing, keep reading to find out all you need to know.
We will learn about the incredible benefits of Invisalign treatment as well as some information concerning individuals who are missing one or more teeth and how this is addressed.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
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Can You Get Invisalign with Missing Teeth?
Yes, in most situations, having a lost tooth or teeth does not impede starting the Invisalign treatment. Keep in mind, however, that only your orthodontist can make the ultimate choice and inform you of your alternatives.
This is why, for the greatest results, you should keep all of your dental visits and adhere to the advice of professionals.
Missing teeth can be caused by a variety of reasons, all of which have an impact on the outcome. However, in general, it is not an obstacle for Invisalign, and you may still get the beautiful smile you desire today.
Before the Invisalign Treatment
Before beginning the Invisalign treatment, you should schedule a consultation with your dentist to have your dental health checked. This is always recommended, whether the patient has a missing tooth or not.
Because each tray of clear aligners is custom-made to properly fit your teeth, they must remain unaltered for the therapy to be effective.
This implies that any dental work, like crowns, fillings, or even implants for missing teeth, must be completed before beginning Invisalign therapy. As a result, when the orthodontist creates a mold for your invisible aligners, your jaw and teeth stay unaltered.
What’s the best option for missing teeth?
We can explore a few feasible treatment alternatives now that we know Invisalign can be worn even if you are missing a front or back tooth.
Depending on the location of the lost tooth and the reason for its absence, your orthodontist may recommend one of the following:
- Leaving the gap – When a tooth has been out of position for a long period, this is sometimes the best option. Teeth next to the gap have a propensity to adjust and shift over time, leaving less and less space for the implant or prosthetic tooth. This is where Invisalign comes in to help straighten the teeth and make a place for the new one.
- Making temporary teeth – Some physicians are ready to be creative to assist patients to feel better and more confident while wearing Invisalign, therefore they make a false tooth that is placed in the Invisalign tray. Because the trays must be worn for 20 to 22 hours each day, the tooth replacement is undetectable and can enhance the patient’s confidence. This can produce excellent results while still leaving room for future permanent false teeth.
- Making implants and dentures – If your condition allows, your orthodontist may recommend that you have an implant or another type of denture put before beginning Invisalign therapy. This means that before you begin straightening your teeth, a metal screw will be inserted into your jaw and a fake tooth will be firmly attached to it. This is frequently the finest and most lasting treatment, but it is dependent on a number of criteria that your doctor must evaluate.
Complications of having Invisalign with a missing tooth
There are dangers and difficulties associated with missing teeth and Invisalign treatment, and it all depends on why the tooth is missing and where it is placed.
A missing front tooth can exacerbate issues and make it more difficult for the clear aligner to work on the rest of the teeth, but as previously said, there are alternatives.
If the lost tooth is at the back, the issue is slightly simpler to manage because it is not visible when the patient smiles.
But the most significant factor is the source of the missing tooth, since if it is caused by gum disease, the entire mouth is likely to be impacted, and all teeth are at risk of coming out. This is why, before the Invisalign treatment, an expert should examine the patient and advise them on the best solution to prevent future problems.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to replace a missing tooth?
Dentures are often the least expensive option to replace one or more teeth or even a whole set of upper and lower teeth.
The denture is generally removable and constructed of high-quality plastic. However, if you intend to use Invisalign, you should consult with your orthodontist to ensure that it is the best choice for you.
Is it OK not to replace a missing tooth?
While most individuals are embarrassed by their lost teeth and wish to replace them as soon as possible, other people believe that a missing tooth is not worth the hassle and that Invisalign works the same way.
It is critical to note that clear aligners are custom built for each patient and, as such, must be a perfect fit in order to operate. This implies that the final result might be determined by a single missing tooth, which will alter the form of the jaw and impact the alignment of the remaining teeth.
Before undergoing Invisalign, it is recommended that you replace the lost tooth and consult with your dentist.
Can you get an implant years after extraction?
Yes, even if the tooth has been gone for a long period, an implant can be used to replace it. However, in order to create a place for the implant, the surrounding teeth must occasionally be moved, which is why Invisalign is so adaptable in giving you the smile you deserve.
Final Thoughts
Invisalign is a fantastic way to have the finest smile and straightest teeth possible, even if you have some teeth missing. You will be one step closer to a confident and healthy smile with regular visits with your dentist and the best potential solution for your condition.
