So if a patient asks us if they can start Invisalign if they already have cavities, the answer is yes but it depends on a few things. Having cavities doesn’t mean you can’t get Invisalign but we usually recommend fixing these problems before we start orthodontic treatment so you get the best results.
The main concern about starting Invisalign if you have untreated cavities is that these problems will get worse while you’re getting orthodontic treatment. If you don’t get treatment for cavities they will get worse and the longer it takes to fix them with Invisalign the worse they will get. This trend can cause dental problems that are harder to fix and could lead to tooth loss. Types of Braces include metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and self-ligating systems. Exploring the different Types of Braces helps patients select the option that best suits their goals.
Before we start orthodontic treatment at Marrecau Orthodontics we work closely with our patients’ primary dentists to make sure they are in the best possible oral health. We believe having healthy teeth and gums is the best way to start moving teeth and keeping your mouth healthy for a long time. This team effort helps avoid problems that can happen if you try to fix orthodontic problems while you have dental disease.
When you have cavities another thing to consider is how well the Invisalign aligners fit and work. Big cavities can change the shape of the teeth which can change how the aligners fit on the surface of the teeth. If the aligner doesn’t fit well it won’t work as well and could even let the teeth move in ways that aren’t intended. Also if you need to fill a cavity while wearing Invisalign the filling can change the shape of the tooth enough to make the aligner not fit properly.
The amount of time it takes to fix cavities before starting Invisalign depends on how many and how bad they are. Fillings that are easy to do can usually be done quickly so orthodontic treatment can start in a few weeks. More complicated restorative work like crowns or root canals may need longer healing times before orthodontic forces can be applied to the teeth that were worked on.
We often get asked if we can do this but I can’t do this until I fix these cavities. But we have found that taking the time to get your mouth as healthy as possible before starting treatment usually leads to better more predictable results in orthodontics. It’s usually worth the small delay in starting treatment because starting orthodontic treatment with untreated dental problems can lead to problems.
We will start your Invisalign treatment by planning and preparing for your smile goals. We will use the Invisalign app to help you achieve your smile. Surgical Orthodontics is recommended for advanced bite or jaw concerns that require a combined approach of braces and corrective surgery. This type of treatment helps improve both function and facial balance.