Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to rebuild smiles after tooth loss because of their unique advantages. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, they’re embedded in your jaw and eventually fuse with the bone to function more like natural teeth.
But if you have developed dental misalignments, you might wonder whether you can successfully complete orthodontic treatments with a dental implant in place. Continue reading to learn more about it so you know what to expect!
How do Dental Implants Work?
These are the only restorations that include a support rod, usually made from titanium or zirconia, that’s surgically positioned directly in your jaw. It can take anywhere from 3 to 6+ months to recover, because that’s often how long it takes the mouth to generate enough new bone to fully envelop this post, making it a more permanent part of your mouth.
Once you’ve mended sufficiently, your dentist can provide a lifelike prosthetic, such as a dental crown, bridge, or dentures, depending on how many teeth are being replaced. The result looks and functions more like natural teeth than alternative solutions.
How Do Orthodontics Work?
Different orthodontic treatments, such as traditional braces and Invisalign, utilize different materials and methods to achieve the same goal: to straighten your smile. Typically, these options are intended to exert enough pressure on your teeth to shift them to their ideal positions.
These services can often be used to move overcrowded or gapped teeth to improve your appearance and dental health, and can also help correct bite misalignments that can cause other concerns, like TMJ issues or prematurely worn-down teeth. Timelines for these services can vary significantly based on your unique circumstances, though many patients complete them within 12 to 24+ months.
Can I Get Orthodontics with Dental Implants?
You’re not alone if you’re wondering whether you can undergo orthodontics if you already have a dental implant. The truth is that it may still be possible to shift your teeth, but your provider might have to work around your replacement tooth.
This is partly because your implant isn’t held in place with muscles, ligaments, and other tissues that have a natural capacity for movement, like your remaining teeth are. Instead, it’s firmly fused to your jawbone, which can make it incredibly difficult to shift.
As a result, some experts recommend straightening your teeth before you get dental implants. But in many cases, your provider can work around your prosthetic to reposition your grin.
If you have one or more replacement teeth and are unsure whether you’re a good candidate for orthodontic treatments, you can find out by scheduling an appointment with your dentist!
Meet the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Skupny takes pride in helping patients improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and today, he has about 20 years of experience providing a complete menu of services, including dental implants and Invisalign, to meet your unique needs at one convenient location. Then, he uses advanced technology to deliver comfortable, accurate treatments for long-lasting results. You can request an appointment on the website or call (239) 261-5566.