Can You Undergo Orthodontic Treatment Even After Having Dental Implants Placed?

Sometimes you might need more than one kind of dental treatment, but you’re not sure how one will affect the other. For example, you may be considering getting dental implants to replace a missing tooth. However, if you have a crooked smile, you might also be thinking about straightening it with an orthodontic treatment. But is orthodontics even an option after dental implants? Here’s what you need to know before making any decisions.

How Exactly Do Dental Implants Work?

First, it’s important to realize that dental implants are not like traditional tooth replacement methods. Instead of sitting on the gums or using natural teeth for support, dental implants are surgically placed into your jaw. Through a process called osseointegration, they can bond with the surrounding bone tissue, which makes them very sturdy and enhances the chewing power of your replacement teeth.

Can You Still Have Orthodontic Treatment Performed After Dental Implants?

Oftentimes, the answer is yes, but there are a few important points to consider. While natural teeth are somewhat moveable, dental implants are not. Therefore, orthodontic treatments such as braces or Invisalign cannot be used to change the position of your implant posts.

That being said, orthodontics can often still improve the alignment of the rest of your smile even after implant placement. This is especially the case if the teeth that need to be repositioned are in a different part of your mouth – that is, away from the area where the dental implant is located.

Of course, it may be better to complete any necessary orthodontic treatments before you have dental implants placed. Doing so can potentially simplify the overall process. Your dentist can check your smile and determine whether you’re a candidate for dental implants and orthodontic treatment. They can also help you figure out which procedure you should pursue first.

Benefits of Dental Implants and Orthodontic Treatment

Dental implants are often seen as the next best thing to natural teeth. They’re much more stable than traditional dentures and are unlikely to slip when you don’t want them to. Additionally, they tend to look and feel very natural, which can be good news for your overall self-esteem. And if you take good care of them, they can last for decades at a time.

Meanwhile, straightening your smile with orthodontics does more than just improve your appearance. Straighter teeth can be easier to clean, and they can ensure that the forces of your bite are distributed properly, which means your enamel won’t wear down as quickly.

Both dental implants and orthodontic treatment can make a positive difference in your life. Talk to your dentist today to find out whether they’re right for your unique smile.

About the Author

Dr. Charles Braga is a proud graduate of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. He enjoys various aspects of dental surgery, and he has experience with all types of dental implants. At his practice, Wayland Dental, patients can get Invisalign to straighten their smiles. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Braga, visit his website or call (508) 651-0500.