You probably would agree that aligning your teeth with Invisalign is not enough if you still have missing teeth that will detract from your smile. The spaces left from missing teeth would not leave your smile at its best. Dental implants provide the healthiest and most natural-looking way to replace missing teeth. But should you receive them before or after Invisalign treatment?
Below are a few facts about Invisalign and dental implants. They will help you plan your time and budget to get your best smile ever.
Invisalign
At the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, our cosmetic dentists are experienced Invisalign providers who achieve beautiful results. Consider some facts about this treatment.
- Invisible – People won’t notice you’re wearing these invisible braces.
- Precise – Customized aligners are made for you. The movement of your teeth will be more precise than with traditional braces.
- Faster – In most cases, the treatment time is half that of traditional braces.
- Convenient – You will remove them to eat, and to brush and floss your teeth.
- Comfortable – Invisalign is metal and wire free. They won’t irritate your teeth and gums.
- Maintenance – As with traditional braces, after treatment with Invisalign, you must wear a retainer full time for the first year. After that, you’ll need to wear it at night. A retainer will prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position.
Before You Request Dental Implants
Before you request dental implants, consider a few facts:
- Construction – They are usually made of titanium, but for people with metal sensitivities or other concerns, zirconia implants are available.
- Permanent – They are surgically placed in your jawbone and in about four months, the bone and implant will fuse together.
- Bone grafting – Dental implants are supported by your jawbone. If you have low bone density, a bone graft might be required.
- Healing time – Usually, it takes three to four months for your jawbone and the implant to fuse together. After that, a natural-looking dental crown will be attached to the implant. Add this time to your Invisalign treatment time to determine when you’ll ultimately have your dream smile.
- Naturalness – Implants function, look, and feel like natural teeth.
- Permanent – Unlike natural teeth, dental implants don’t have flexible ligaments. They cannot be repositioned during Invisalign treatment.
Dental Implants after Invisalign
In most cases, it will be recommended that you complete Invisalign treatment before you receive dental implants. Dental implants are rigid, and unlike natural teeth, they won’t bend and flex during treatment with Invisalign. It is possible that the implants can damage adjacent teeth. If you already have dental implants, but are interested in Invisalign, carefully planning can make treatment possible.
If you want orthodontic treatment with Invisalign, schedule an appointment with one of our cosmetic dentists at the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry. You will learn about your options and how you can maintain good oral health and get the beautiful smile you want. Call us at 404-994-4509 to schedule an appointment, or complete our Request an Appointment form.