Is Invisalign Bad If I Have Cavity Prone Teeth?

Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces. This treatment does not have any brackets or wires, and uses removable acrylic trays. The trays are worn in a series over time each day, and move your teeth gently into place. Invisalign trays are easily removable for eating, drinking, and cleaning. They have a blue indicator that helps to tell the patient that they have worn the tray for the required time each day. This indicator is especially helpful to younger teen patients, and helps to alert parents if the child is wearing their trays for the required amount of time.

Are You a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

We want our patients to be proud of their smile and choose the option that works best for them. A smile is the first thing you see, and our team will ensure each patient achieves their smile goals. When you choose Invisalign you may wonder if you are a good candidate. Both adults and teens are good candidates for Invisalign.  This type of treatment helps with overcrowding, chewing, or overbite problems. During our thorough consultation process we will discuss each patient’s level of correction, age, and smile goals to help them choose which orthodontic treatment is best.

Can I Still Get Invisalign if I Have a Cavity?

We want our patients to be in good general and oral health. If you tend to have cavity prone teeth, you still are a candidate for Invisalign. Our team will work with you to address any current cavities before you begin your Invisalign treatment. We will closely monitor your oral health with visits to our office to get in front of any future cavities.

Treatment of cavities takes priority before a patient can begin Invisalign treatment. Once a cavity is treated the filling can change the shape of the tooth. It is important to treat the cavity before the patient is fitted for the Invisalign aligner trays. 

What If I Develop a Cavity During My Invisalign Treatment?

Developing a cavity during Invisalign treatment is possible, and we always address a cavity right away when they are identified during your dental exam in our office. Our staff will determine a treatment plan, and recommend how to handle the cavity during your orthodontic treatment.

In some cases we can ensure the shape of the tooth remains the same by shaping the filling to match your Invisalign aligner trays. If the cavity is small enough we may just monitor the area, and recommend good oral hygiene habits to ensure the cavity does not get worse. It is important for patients wearing aligner trays to practice proper oral hygiene habits to ensure food and bacteria do not get stuck underneath the trays. Cleaning the trays daily is important to rinse any bacteria or particles away. 

How Can I Learn More About Invisalign?

If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign, and if this is the orthodontic solution for you, our team is here to help get you on the road to a beautiful smile. Our detailed consultation process will examine your teeth and mouth, and we will recommend what treatment options are available. We work with each patient to help decide which orthodontic treatment works best.

To schedule your orthodontic consultation, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!