Many people want straighter teeth but worry about whether Invisalign works with dental crowns. If you have a crown and are considering Invisalign, you may wonder if it will affect your treatment. The good news is that NHS Dentist Aberdeen provides Invisalign treatment for patients with crowns, ensuring a customised approach to achieve the best results. However, some factors may affect the process.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth using clear plastic aligners. These aligners are custom-made and gradually shift your teeth into their correct positions. Many people prefer Invisalign over traditional braces because it is nearly invisible, removable, and more comfortable.
Invisalign can fix several dental issues, including:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Minor to moderate misalignment
Since Invisalign does not use metal brackets or wires, it is a good option for many people, including those with crowns.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It helps restore strength, function, and appearance. Crowns can be made from different materials, including:
- Porcelain – Natural-looking and blends with your teeth.
- Ceramic – Durable and aesthetic.
- Metal – Strong but not commonly used for front teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal – A mix of strength and aesthetics.
Since crowns are not natural teeth, some people wonder if they will interfere with Invisalign treatment.
Can You Get Invisalign If You Have a Crown?
Yes, you can get Invisalign even if you have a dental crown. However, there are some things to consider before starting treatment. Invisalign works by applying pressure to move teeth, and crowned teeth may respond slightly differently than natural teeth.
Your dentist will assess your case and decide if Invisalign is the best option for you.
Factors That Affect Invisalign with a Crown
1. Stability of the Crown
- Crowns must be securely bonded to the tooth.
- If a crown is loose or old, it may need to be replaced before Invisalign treatment begins.
2. Location of the Crown
- Front tooth crowns usually work well with Invisalign.
- Back tooth crowns may require special adjustments, especially if attachments are needed.
3. Crown Material
- Porcelain and ceramic crowns work well with Invisalign.
- Metal crowns may not respond as well to the aligner pressure.
4. Tooth Movement
- Natural teeth move easily, but crowned teeth do not have nerve endings and may move slightly slower.
- Invisalign treatment may take longer if multiple crowned teeth are involved.
How Invisalign Works with Crowns
Invisalign aligners are custom-made to fit over your teeth, including any crowns. If needed, small attachments (tooth-coloured bumps) may be placed to help aligners grip better.
However, attachments may not bond as well to crowns as they do to natural teeth. If necessary, your dentist may place the attachment on a nearby natural tooth instead.
Potential Challenges of Invisalign with Crowns
While Invisalign is generally safe for people with crowns, there are some challenges to be aware of.
1. Risk of Crown Loosening
- Invisalign applies pressure to move teeth, which could weaken an old crown.
- If a crown is already unstable, it may need to be re-cemented or replaced.
2. Attachments May Not Stick Well to Crowns
- Some cases require Invisalign attachments to help with tooth movement.
- Attachments may not bond securely to certain crown materials.
- Your dentist will decide the best placement for attachments.
3. Crowned Teeth May Move Differently
- Teeth with crowns may not shift as easily as natural teeth.
- Your treatment plan may need adjustments to account for this.
Should You Get a Crown Before or After Invisalign?
If you need both a crown and Invisalign, the timing is important.
- If your tooth is already damaged, your dentist may recommend a temporary crown first and replace it with a permanent one after Invisalign.
- If you already have a crown, your dentist will check if it is strong enough for Invisalign.
It is always best to discuss your treatment plan with your dentist to ensure the best outcome.
Caring for Your Teeth During Invisalign Treatment
If you have crowns and are using Invisalign, follow these tips to keep your teeth healthy:
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
- Brush twice a day and floss regularly.
- Clean your aligners daily to prevent plaque build-up.
2. Be Careful When Removing Aligners
- Avoid putting too much pressure on crowned teeth when taking out your aligners.
- Use both hands to remove aligners evenly.
3. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
- Schedule routine check-ups to make sure your crown stays secure.
- If your crown feels loose, contact your dentist immediately.
Conclusion
Yes, you can get Invisalign with a crown, but special care is needed. If your crown is secure, well-maintained, and made of a compatible material, Invisalign can work just like it does for natural teeth.
Before starting treatment, visit your dentist to check your crown’s condition. With the right approach, you can achieve a straighter, more confident smile—crown and all!
Start Your Invisalign Journey at Old Machar Dental Care
If you are considering Invisalign but have dental crowns, Old Machar Dental Care is here to help! Our experienced team provides tailored Invisalign treatments, ensuring your crowns remain secure while achieving a straighter smile.
Book a consultation today to discuss your options and receive expert guidance. Call us now or visit our website to schedule your appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Invisalign Damage My Crown?
Invisalign is safe for crowns, but older or weak crowns may loosen over time. Your dentist will check your crown’s condition before treatment.
Will Invisalign Work Differently on a Crowned Tooth?
Yes, crowned teeth may move slightly slower than natural teeth, but Invisalign can still work with the right adjustments.
Can Invisalign Attachments Be Placed on Crowns?
Attachments can be placed on crowns, but they may not bond as well. Your dentist may put attachments on a nearby natural tooth instead.
What If My Crown Comes Loose During Invisalign?
If your crown becomes loose, see your dentist immediately. It may need to be re-cemented or replaced.
Should I Get a New Crown Before or After Invisalign?
If possible, wait until after Invisalign to get a new crown. That way, it can be shaped to fit your newly aligned teeth.