Which Teeth Aren’t a Good Fit for Invisalign?
Just as keys fit specific locks, Invisalign aligners need specific dental conditions to work effectively. Clear aligners have transformed orthodontic treatment, but do not correct every dental issue. Certain types of teeth need alternative solutions. This guide will explain clearly which dental conditions are unsuitable for Invisalign. It will help you understand if traditional braces might be a better option for your needs.
Factors to Consider
Before choosing Invisalign, know that certain tooth conditions typically require braces or other orthodontic treatments:
- Teeth are severely rotated beyond 20 degrees.
- Teeth connected by dental bridges.
- Severe bite misalignments involving jaw issues.
- Teeth are partially hidden under gums (impacted teeth).
- Teeth affected by untreated decay or gum disease.
Let’s discuss each issue.
Severely Rotated Teeth
Invisalign aligners effectively move teeth into their correct positions. But teeth rotated beyond 20 degrees pose challenges. Aligners have a limited grip on rotated teeth, especially when rotations are severe. Teeth like canines and premolars often resist alignment through Invisalign alone.
Traditional metal braces usually achieve better results if your teeth have rotations over 20 degrees. Braces provide stronger forces to move teeth effectively into their ideal positions. Sometimes dentists combine Invisalign and braces to handle severe rotations, achieving better alignment.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges replace missing teeth by connecting artificial teeth to natural ones. Invisalign works by moving each tooth individually, but bridges connect multiple teeth together. Because bridges move teeth as a unit, Invisalign aligners cannot effectively shift them individually.
When you have a bridge, aligners become ineffective. Teeth supporting bridges must remain fixed to maintain structural integrity. Invisalign cannot adjust bridged teeth without disrupting the entire dental bridge. Traditional braces or fixed orthodontic appliances offer more precise control and better results for patients with bridges.
Teeth with Multiple Crowns
Crowns protect teeth damaged by decay or injury. If your teeth have multiple crowns, Invisalign treatment becomes complicated. Crowns can alter how aligners grip teeth, reducing the precision of tooth movement.
The effectiveness of Invisalign decreases when crowns are metal-based or poorly bonded. Teeth with crowns often require special attachments to improve aligner grip. Despite adjustments, traditional braces frequently offer better alignment outcomes in these cases.
Severe Bite Misalignments
Orthodontists classify bite issues by how the upper and lower teeth align. Invisalign works best for mild to moderate bite corrections. Clear aligners often lack the necessary force for severe overbites, underbites, or crossbites involving jaw alignment.
Deep Overbites
Invisalign effectively handles mild to moderate overbites. Severe overbites, however, often involve jaw issues that Invisalign alone cannot fix. Braces provide stronger corrective forces when the top teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth. Severe overbites may require additional orthodontic appliances or even surgery for optimal correction.
Complex Crossbites
Crossbites occur when teeth from the upper and lower jaws don’t align properly. Invisalign effectively corrects simple crossbites. However, severe crossbites affecting multiple teeth or requiring jaw expansion require braces or orthodontic appliances. These provide precise control and sufficient force to realign complex crossbites properly.
Impacted Teeth
Impacted teeth fail to emerge through the gums fully. Invisalign aligners depend on gripping the tooth surface directly. Teeth hidden beneath gums offer no surface for aligners to attach or shift.
Traditional braces combined with surgical exposure typically provide successful outcomes for impacted teeth. Orthodontists surgically uncover impacted teeth, attaching braces directly to guide these teeth into their correct positions.
Untreated Gum Disease or Tooth Decay
Healthy gums and teeth are necessary for successful orthodontic treatment. Invisalign treatment cannot proceed effectively if teeth or gums have untreated disease or decay.
Active gum disease weakens the gums and supporting bone, increasing the risk of moving teeth through diseased gums. Similarly, decay weakens tooth structure, complicating tooth alignment. Dentists must resolve these issues before starting Invisalign.
Structural Tooth Issues
Teeth with significant structural problems often fail to respond adequately to Invisalign. Severely tilted teeth or teeth missing large portions require stronger, direct force from traditional braces.
Missing teeth also complicate alignment. Dentists may recommend dental implants or bridges before orthodontic treatment to stabilize your bite. Once these interventions occur, dentists evaluate whether Invisalign or braces suit your needs.
Patient-Related Limitations
Successful Invisalign treatment depends greatly on patient commitment. You must wear aligners 20 to 22 hours daily and maintain good oral hygiene. If daily wear schedules or aligner care become difficult, results diminish significantly.
Certain health conditions, like TMJ disorders or severe periodontal disease, also complicate aligner use. These conditions must be resolved through specialized treatments before orthodontic correction.
Common Invisalign Questions Answered
Patients often have common questions about Invisalign eligibility. Here are straightforward answers:
Can Teenagers with Baby Teeth Use Invisalign?
Yes. Invisalign offers specialized treatments for teenagers who are still losing baby teeth. Customized aligners accommodate growing mouths. Dentists monitor closely to ensure proper dental development during treatment. However, depending on dental maturity, braces sometimes deliver faster, more predictable results.
How Soon After Tooth Extraction Can Invisalign Start?
Usually, Invisalign treatment begins two to six weeks after tooth extraction. Dentists monitor healing closely, ensuring gums and bones recover adequately. Full recovery ensures effective and comfortable treatment.
Does Smoking Affect Invisalign Treatment?
Yes. Smoking interferes significantly with Invisalign success. Nicotine restricts blood flow, slowing tooth movement. Tobacco stains clear aligners and increases decay risk. Smokers tend to remove aligners frequently, reducing daily wear time. Reducing or stopping smoking greatly improves treatment outcomes.
Can Invisalign Fix Teeth That Shifted After Braces?
Yes. Invisalign effectively treats teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic work. Aligners precisely move teeth back into their intended positions. Success depends on bone health and the degree of shifting. Many patients achieve excellent results through Invisalign retreatment.
Are Payment Plans or Insurance Available for Invisalign?
Yes. Many dental insurance plans offer partial Invisalign coverage. Financing plans divide costs into monthly payments over two to five years, often interest-free. Flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA) can cover treatment expenses using pre-tax funds.
Understanding Your Treatment Options
Invisalign clear aligners work effectively for many dental issues, but are not suitable for everyone. If your teeth fall into any of the categories discussed, alternative orthodontic options will serve you better. Traditional braces, orthodontic appliances, or combined treatments often achieve optimal results.
At Des Moines Cosmetic Dentistry Center, Dr. Stephen Forrest carefully evaluates your specific dental conditions. Your customized orthodontic treatment plan ensures healthy, lasting results. Whether you choose Invisalign, traditional braces, or combined treatments, your comfort and long-term dental health remain our top priorities.
Let’s talk about your smile! Schedule a consultation and we’ll help you find the best solution for your unique dental needs, so you can smile confidently and feel your best.
