Can You Get Invisalign if You Have a Missing Tooth?

Invisalign® is a good option for straightening out your teeth. However, if you have one or more missing teeth, you might be wondering if you can still have Invisalign. The answer is yes. It is a good idea to replace your missing tooth after having this treatment.

Invisalign and missing teeth

Replacing a missing tooth can improve the smile and restore a patient’s self-esteem. Today, there are many options for tooth replacement. This includes crowns, dental implants, partial dentures and bridges. This can be a good option for the end of Invisalign treatment. However, it is a good idea to have this orthodontic treatment before choosing tooth-replacement options.

The reason for this is that if a tooth is missing, then the nearby teeth can shift into the gap. This happens even more when the tooth has been missing for some time. In such a case, there is not enough room for the replacement tooth. The remaining natural teeth will also appear to be crooked.

Moving the nearby teeth into the right position will give more room for the replacement tooth. In addition, if the teeth are not aligned properly, they might need more dental work. This includes fillings or crowns. When the teeth are poorly aligned, bacteria may grow in the area and cause cavities. It is often more difficult to properly care for these teeth as well.

Complications of Invisalign treatment

If the patient lost the teeth because of gum disease, there might be some complications. If the gum and bone tissue around the teeth are not healthy, this can also be more difficult. Good gum and bone health are important for making orthodontic treatment successful. When the teeth are moving, the gums and bones must rebuild themselves. If the tissues are healthy, this can happen easily. However, if there is periodontal inflammation, the patient may lose bone tissue.

After Invisalign

Once the teeth are aligned properly, the patient can get a tooth replacement. That might involve bridges, implants or partial dentures. However, the patient will still need to wear a retainer after having treatment. Everyone must have a retainer after having orthodontic treatment.

This will prevent the teeth from drifting back to the original positions. This will also help the teeth to stabilize to the new position. The dentist may make the retainer after the patient receives a tooth replacement. This will help the retainer to fit properly. While waiting to get a retainer, it is a good idea to only eat soft foods. Hard foods may push a tooth slightly out of alignment.

Visit a dentist for Invisalign

If you are considering Invisalign, visiting a dentist is a good way to determine if you are a candidate. Each set of trays will be molded to your teeth. This means that even if you have a missing tooth, the aligners will still be designed to fit you. Making an appointment is your first step toward a new smile.

Request an appointment here: https://www.texasstarsmiles.com or call Texas Star Smiles & Fastbraces at (254) 237-1342 for an appointment in our Killeen office.

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