Teeth get put through a lot of stress over a lifetime, and it’s not uncommon for someone to have a few teeth restored with dental crowns, bridges, or veneers. However, advances in orthodontics have led to treatments like Invisalign and braces for adults becoming more and more popular. While adults with dental restorations can get orthodontic treatments, the process will require some special consideration. Here’s how Invisalign treatment can proceed for adults with crowns, bridges, or veneers.
How Does Invisalign Work with Crowns?
It can be difficult to realign teeth with traditional braces for a patient who has a dental crown because of the risk of the wires losing tension if the crown becomes dislodged. Invisalign can be a great way to do the job because it doesn’t need to be adhered to the teeth. However, Invisalign is not able to treat severely misaligned bites. If your teeth need more extensive orthodontic work, braces may be the only option.
What Is Invisalign Like with Bridges or Veneers?
Being a fixed restoration, dental bridges cannot be moved in the same way as natural teeth with traditional braces. Attaching braces to either bridges or veneers may damage these restorations because the constant tension may lead to cracking or dislodging. This means that Invisalign may be a suitable method for realigning smiles that have been treated with bridges or veneers because they do not need to be attached to the teeth.
Will I Have to Wear a Retainer After Invisalign?
After completing any orthodontic treatment, it is necessary to wear a retainer to preserve the results even if you have dental crowns, bridges, or veneers. However, if you get a new crown while wearing a retainer, it is possible that your old retainer may no longer fit your teeth. You will need to see your orthodontist about having it replaced. It is absolutely crucial that you wear your retainer consistently after Invisalign until your orthodontist gives you the all-clear. Otherwise, your teeth will shift out of alignment, and the results of the treatment will be lost.
Invisalign can be a great way to correct minor alignment issues for adults with dental restorations and prostheses like crowns, bridges, and veneers. However, braces may be necessary to treat more severe cases of misalignment and malocclusion. Consulting with your orthodontist will give you the final say on which treatment options are right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Brad Weiss graduated with his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Indiana University’s School of Dentistry in Indianapolis before gaining experience with lasers, computer-aided design, and machined dentistry in Kenilworth and Winnetka. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Illinois State Dental Society, and the Chicago Dental Society. His office in Skokie, IL provides general, pediatric, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry in addition to Invisalign treatments. For more information on Invisalign, contact the office online or dial (847) 864-0188.