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Invisalign is a convenient, discreet, and effective way to straighten your teeth. Treatment consists of using clear trays to transform your smile without the need for metal braces.
The custom aligner trays are created from digital impressions of your lower and upper arches. The trays apply pressure to your teeth, slowly moving them in small increments.
In most cases, Invisalign provides the same results as conventional orthodontic methods like traditional metal braces. However, Invisalign comes without the appearance, discomfort, or hygiene challenges of metal braces.
If you have one or more missing teeth, you can still opt for Invisalign. But it’s essential to have a plan to replace your missing tooth once you’re finished with treatment.
Dental professionals usually recommend orthodontic treatments like Invisalign before seeking tooth replacements. This allows the neighboring teeth to shift back into their proper position, making room for the implant.
However, getting an implant before, during, or after Invisalign treatment is possible, depending on the case. Invisalign trays and dental implants work well together during all stages of treatment.
Straighten your teeth at a fraction of the cost. Learn about clear aligners.
Many people opt for a dental implant to replace a missing tooth during Invisalign. Here’s how the treatments work together:
Most dentists will recommend Invisalign before dental implants. This gives the orthodontist more flexibility to create a perfect smile before adding a permanent implant.
There may be exceptions. This is especially true if your dentist thinks you don’t have enough bone support, or it might decay by the time you get the implant.
If necessary, you can get a dental implant during Invisalign. Your dentist will have to take the implant’s positioning into account when designing the aligner treatment plan.
If you already have dental implants, or are about to get them, Invisalign treatment can begin after the procedure.
Here’s how it works:
During a consultation, your dentist determines the type of implant you need. Then an incision is made into your gums, and a titanium pole is screwed into your jawbone.
After the procedure, it takes about 3 to 4 weeks to heal completely. You’ll return to the office to have an artificial tooth (crown) implanted.
Once the site heals, you can set up an appointment with a certified Invisalign doctor to begin treatment. The dental professional will take impressions of your teeth, including the implanted tooth.
Next, the impressions are sent to a dental lab. Here, lab technicians make your custom aligners and send them back to your Invisalign provider.
You’ll wear each aligner set for two weeks and visit your Invisalign doctor every 6 to 8 weeks to check progress.
If a tooth is missing because of gum disease, the gum and bone tissue surrounding the teeth aren’t healthy.
For Invisalign to succeed, gums and teeth need to be as healthy as possible. Teeth also require time to rebuild themselves so they don’t move.
Additionally, if you have cavities or other oral health conditions, they need to be addressed before Invisalign.
Continue to wear your retainers after Invisalign treatment. These devices prevent your teeth from moving back to their original positions.
Find the best at-home clear aligners for mild misalignment. See our expert recommendations.
Invisalign treats a wide range of other orthodontic problems, including:7
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