Can You Get Invisalign with A Missing Tooth?

Millions of people have used Invisalign treatment to straighten their teeth to improve their smile, bite function, and oral health. Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment used to correct teeth misalignments, overcrowding, and improper teeth gaps.

If you’re looking to straighten your bite but have a missing tooth, you might wonder whether Invisalign treatment is an option. The answer is yes; you can align your bite with Invisalign even if you have a missing tooth. Visit our office for Invisalign in Wellesley, MA.

How Does Invisalign Work?

The dentist or orthodontist will examine your mouth to determine whether you’re a good candidate for Invisalign treatment. While effective, Invisalign may only be ideal for some. For instance, reports show that Invisalign isn’t effective at correcting severe misalignments and malocclusions. In such a case, your dentist can suggest traditional braces.

Invisalign uses a system of clear aligner trays custom designed to fit snugly over the teeth. The dentist takes impressions of your mouth and teeth to make models of your Invisalign aligner trays. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign is virtually invisible and can be removed whenever necessary. Always remove the aligners when eating, drinking, or cleaning your mouth.

The aligners gently and gradually force the teeth to move to the desired location. Your dentist will give you a series of aligners, which you should change every two weeks. The aligners should be worn for at least 20 – 22 hours daily for the entire treatment period, which can take 6 – 18 months.

Invisalign and Missing Teeth

Generally, it’s okay to get Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments for missing teeth. There are several benefits of having your Invisalign treatment before tooth replacement. These include:

• Invisalign prepares you for tooth replacement.

When you’re missing teeth, the adjacent ones shift gradually toward the gap to occupy the space. This reduces the space and can make it difficult for your dentist to insert a replacement tooth. Invisalign treatment helps position your natural teeth in their rightful places, giving enough room for the replacement procedure. Once the teeth have shifted to their final positions, the dentist can fix the replacement tooth without looking abnormal or uncomfortable.

• Invisalign can be done with an artificial tooth.

During your Invisalign treatment, your dentist can place a fake tooth into the aligner tray to improve your smile. The artificial tooth improves your smile during your Invisalign treatment and makes you feel better about your smile. Consult your dentist to know whether this is an option.

Why You Should Replace Your Missing Teeth Immediately After Your Invisalign Treatment

After completing your Invisalign treatment, the dentist will give you a retainer to help keep the teeth in their new positions. Still, you must replace your missing teeth as soon as possible. Why is this important?

For starters, the longer you stay with the gap, the higher the risk of new misalignments. The corrected teeth adjacent to the gap can shift towards the gap, causing further misalignments. You will need new orthodontic treatment to provide enough space for the fake tooth later. Closing the gap immediately after Invisalign treatment helps your natural teeth stay in their correct positions.

Replacing missing teeth also improves your smile and bite function, allowing you to smile confidently and enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions. It can also enhance your jawbone health, speech, and oral hygiene, contributing to a healthier smile and body.

Standard tooth replacement options include:

• Dental implants involve placing a titanium post or screw into the jawbone to replace the missing tooth roots. Then, an outer crown is placed over the implant post to act as the artificial tooth. Dental implants offer the best strength, stability, and durability compared to other treatments.
• Dental bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth held in position with dental crowns, frameworks, and dental implants.
• Dentures are dental prostheses with artificial teeth and gums that rest on your natural teeth and gums. Dental implants can support some dentures.

Are You Interested in Invisalign?

For more information about Invisalign treatment and missing teeth, contact Wellesley Dental Arts.