Can You Have Invisalign With Missing Teeth?
Invisalign is a highly effective method for straightening teeth, correcting crossbites, overbites, closing gaps in teeth, correcting crookedness and more for over 14 million people globally. One common misconception is that having missing teeth can sound like a total deal-breaker when it comes to getting Invisalign, but the positive news is that Invisalign can still be successful even in cases where one or more teeth are missing.
Let’s explore the possibilities of undergoing Invisalign treatment with missing teeth, the challenges it may present, and the solutions available to you.
Understanding Invisalign
Before delving into how Invisalign works with missing teeth, let’s briefly look into what the Invisalign process looks like.
Customised treatment plan – We work with you to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and smile goals. Using advanced technology, we map out the precise movements required to fix any orthodontic concerns you may have.
Your custom clear aligners – Invisalign aligners are made from a transparent, BPA-free plastic material, which are virtually invisible when worn, so you don’t have to feel conscious of your treatment at any stage.
Gradual alignment – You will receive a series of aligners, each designed to be worn for around 22 hours a day, 7 days a week, only taking them out to eat and drink. Once your teeth have moved by 0.25mm you’ll swap to the next set of aligners. This process will repeat until your teeth are in the desired position.
Monitoring and adjustments – Throughout your treatment, we will monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. This ensures that your teeth are gradually moving to the correct position in a controlled and effective way.
Invisalign and missing teeth
Invisalign for a single missing tooth
If you have a single missing tooth and you’re also in need of additional orthodontic treatment for mild to moderate alignment issues, Invisalign is still an option. The aligners can help move the surrounding teeth into the correct positions, however, we may recommend other treatments to address the gap, such as a dental bridge or implant.
Fixing a single missing tooth with Invisalign
If you have one missing tooth and wish to undergo Invisalign treatment, we may recommend the use of clear aligners to adjust the alignment of the surrounding teeth so that once the alignment is complete, the gap created by the missing tooth can be fixed with a dental implant or another suitable option.
Invisalign with multiple missing teeth
When you have multiple missing teeth in a row, Invisalign becomes slightly more complex as the aligners may not have the necessary support to effectively move the teeth into the correct positions. In such cases, we may recommend a combination of orthodontic treatment and restorative dentistry, like dental implants or partial dentures. If you’re usure of whether you can have Invisalign if you have missing teeth, get in touch with us for a consultation.
Fixing multiple missing teeth with Invisalign
When multiple missing teeth comed into the equation, the focus may shift to both orthodontic alignment and comprehensive restorative solutions. We will work together to create a treatment plan that includes Invisalign to align the remaining teeth and then restore the gaps with dental bridges, partial dentures, or implants if required.
Challenges of Invisalign with missing teeth
For many people, Invisalign treatment with missing teeth can be very successful, however it does present several challenges as Invisalign aligners rely on neighbouring teeth for support and anchorage. When there are gaps due to missing teeth, there may not be enough support for the aligners to apply the necessary pressure to move the teeth effectively.
Your smile goals play a significant role in determining the feasibility of Invisalign with missing teeth. If closing the gap created by missing teeth is a priority, alternative treatments may be necessary, so your treatment may be longer than planned.
Consultation with Smile Stories
The best way to determine if Invisalign is suitable for your specific case with missing teeth is to consult with us – we’re on hand to answer any questions and put you at ease. During your consultation, we will:
Assess your dental condition
We will examine your teeth, evaluate the extent of your alignment issues, and consider the presence of missing teeth.
Discuss smile goals
Your orthodontic goals, including addressing the gaps from missing teeth and achieving a straighter smile, will be discussed so we can understand what bothers you the most, and what we can do to correct it.
A customised treatment plan – Your Smile Story
Based on the assessment, we will customise a treatment plan that may involve Invisalign, restorative dentistry procedures, or a combination of both to help you achieve your dream smile.
Invisalign can be a great option for individuals with missing teeth, depending on the number of missing teeth and your overall smile goals. Whether you have a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, Invisalign, in combination with restorative dentistry, can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wished for.
Book a free consultation today
Invisalign offers a comfortable and cosmetically appealing treatment option for correcting misalignment issues and other orthodontic concerns. Schedule an appointment with us to discuss how we can be a part of your smile story.
