Many adults considering Invisalign wonder if their existing dental work, such as crowns, will interfere with treatment. The short answer is: it depends. While Invisalign is a highly adaptable system, the presence of crowns can influence treatment feasibility and outcome. Let's delve into the specifics.
What are Crowns and How Do They Affect Invisalign Treatment?
Dental crowns are caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, strength, and appearance. They're typically made of porcelain or ceramic to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. The crucial point regarding Invisalign is that crowns alter the tooth's surface, making it slightly different from natural enamel.
This difference can impact how well the Invisalign aligners fit and move the teeth. In some cases, crowns can prevent the aligners from exerting the necessary pressure for effective tooth movement. The degree of interference depends on several factors.
Can Invisalign Move Teeth with Crowns?
In many cases, yes, Invisalign can still be used successfully even with existing crowns. However, the success rate hinges on several factors:
- The location of the crowns: Crowns on teeth that need significant movement might present a challenge. If the crown is on a tooth requiring minimal adjustment, it likely won't significantly affect the treatment.
- The type of crown: The material and design of the crown can affect the aligner's ability to grip the tooth.
- The overall treatment plan: Your orthodontist will assess your specific needs and the positioning of your crowns to determine the best course of action. They might adjust the treatment plan to accommodate the crowns or suggest alternative solutions if necessary.
- The extent of movement required: Minor adjustments are often manageable, but significant movements might be problematic if a crown is involved.
How Does the Presence of Crowns Affect the Invisalign Treatment Plan?
Your orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination, including taking impressions or scans of your teeth. This data is crucial for creating a precise 3D model that simulates the tooth movement throughout the treatment. The presence of crowns will be factored into this model, potentially affecting the treatment duration and the sequence of aligner changes.
In some instances, subtle adjustments might be necessary:
- Customized Attachments: Small, tooth-colored attachments might be bonded to the crowns or adjacent teeth to help the aligners grip more effectively.
- Modified Aligners: The aligners themselves might need slight modifications to account for the crowns' shape and position.
Will My Crowns Need Replacement Before or During Invisalign?
Typically, existing crowns don't require replacement before starting Invisalign. However, if a crown is severely damaged, fractured, or otherwise compromised, your dentist might recommend replacement before beginning orthodontic treatment. This ensures the best possible outcome and prevents complications during Invisalign. This is a decision your orthodontist and dentist would collaborate on.
What if Invisalign Isn't Suitable Due to Existing Crowns?
If your orthodontist determines that Invisalign is not suitable due to the presence and placement of your crowns, they'll discuss alternative treatment options. These could include traditional metal braces or other orthodontic appliances better suited to your individual circumstances.
In summary: Consult Your Orthodontist
Ultimately, the question of whether you can get Invisalign with crowns is best answered by your orthodontist. A consultation will provide a personalized assessment and determine the best path towards achieving your desired smile, taking into account all aspects of your dental health. Don't hesitate to ask your orthodontist all your questions and discuss your concerns thoroughly.
