How Long Will a Broken Dental Crown Delay Invisalign Treatment?

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My front left dental crown broke while eating lunch last Wednesday. I had removed my Invisalign trays to eat and was afraid to put them back on. I saw my dentist get fitted for a new crown. I am wearing a temporary crown until the new one comes in, but my Invisalign trays don’t fit right, so I removed them. I have them with me, but I am out of town. Should I try to wear the trays again? – Thanks. Johanna from RI

Johanna,

It is good that you immediately saw your dentist for a temporary crown. Without a crown, a weak or damaged exposed tooth can further weaken.

Broken Crown During Invisalign Treatment

Getting a new crown becomes the priority if your crown breaks in the middle of Invisalign treatment or any other orthodontic treatment. If you can schedule an appointment with your Invisalign dentist or orthodontist, it is best to get an evaluation of your treatment plan with clear aligners. However, if you are traveling and unable to see your Invisalign provider, call the office to explain what happened. Generally, it takes two visits to get new crowns.

  • First visit – Your dentist will prepare your tooth and ensure it can support a dental crown. Afterward, they will take impressions of your tooth.
  • Waiting period – A dental lab takes about two weeks to use the dental impressions and your dentist’s instructions for making a custom crown.
  • Second visit – When you return to the dental office, the dentist will temporarily cement the crown to your tooth to check it for bit and fit.
Invisalign upper and lower aligners

Replacing a broke dental crown takes priority over your treatment plan with Invisalign or other clear aligners.

If your dentist is skilled in taking impressions, seating the crown, and checking your bite, the interruption for Invisalign treatment should be brief. Contact your Invisalign dentist or orthodontist to tell them about the issue with your crown and that you cannot wear the aligners with the temporary crown. When you return from traveling, your Invisalign provider will get your treatment plan back on track.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Read about his education and training, and learn what he does to provide some of the best dental care in Baton Rouge.

 

Will My Root Canal Tooth Break?

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My dentist says I need a root canal on my left incisor before beginning Invisalign treatment. I was concerned about needing a crown on a front tooth that would turn yellow or dark around my gums. But my dentist explained that she does not need to place a crown after the root canal; she will fill it instead. I wonder if the tooth will break because it is weak after the root canal treatment. And with Invisalign repositioning my teeth, isn’t it just a matter of time before the tooth breaks? Thanks. Jamison from NY

Thank you for your question, Jamison. Although Dr. Brooksher would need to examine your tooth for an accurate diagnosis, we will offer some basic information about root canals and orthodontic treatment.

Does Root Canal Treatment Weaken Teeth?

Teeth that require root canal treatment are already weak from decay, trauma, or extensive fillings. And root canal treatment can weaken them. But whether a dentist places a crown on the tooth depends on the tooth’s condition and position.

  • Back teeth – Back teeth must withstand the forces of chewing and grinding food. So, dentists protect the teeth with crowns after root canal treatment.
  • Front teeth – Fewer forces affect front teeth. It is unlikely for an incisor to split vertically, but sometimes it can break horizontally. But preparing an incisor for a dental crown can weaken the tooth near the base before its roots. If you have lost most of your tooth structure or the tooth is already cracked. A dentist can reinforce your tooth with a flexible post and fill the tooth with a dental composite. Removing root canal filler material will prevent your tooth from turning dark.

Will Invisalign Break Your Root Canal Tooth?

Invisalign upper and lower aligners

Invisalign

Your dentist will begin Invisalign treatment when your root canal tooth is stable to prevent any trauma during treatment. Healing time can take one to two months, but each patient’s case is different, so your dentist will explain what you can expect. Also, Invisalign and other alternatives for clear braces move teeth with precision and gently apply force on your teeth.

If you are hesitant about your dentist’s treatment recommendation, ask questions to ensure you understand them. And you can consider getting a second opinion.

 

Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist and Fellow of implant dentistry Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Read about his efforts to offer some of the best dental care in Baton Rouge.

Why Are My Dental Crowns Sensitive to Heat?

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I got three dental crowns in 2004, two of which are sensitive to heat. I began Invisalign in August, and now I am having trouble with crowns. This is frustrating because if I need new crowns, it will throw off my treatment. Is Invisalign causing problems with my crowns? My dentist says I probably need root canals, but he will take x-rays next week. Do I need to see another dentist? Why do I suddenly need root canals? – Thank you. Liya from Chicago

Liya,

Thank you for your question. Dr. Brooksher would need to take x-rays and examine your teeth, but we can provide general guidance.

Why Are Dental Crowns Sensitive to Heat?

When your crowned teeth are sensitive to heat, it may mean that the tooth pulp is dying. Root canal treatment removes infection and can save the teeth. Consider the facts:

  • Tooth pain and sensitivity – Periodic tooth pain and sensitivity do not mean that the tooth pulp is dying. When pain lingers and sensitivity is consistent, usually the tooth requires root canal treatment.
  • Effect of an infection – When your body sends antibodies to fight infection in the tooth pulp, the tissue begins to swell. Lack of space in your tooth causes the tissue to swell and die, releasing gases that increase pressure and cause pain and sensitivity.

Invisalign movement puts gentle pressure on a tooth and can aggravate an infected tooth; however, Invisalign is not the cause of the irritation and infection.

Root Canal for a Crowned Tooth

A dentist can make a small opening through your dental crowns to perform root canal treatment. If you have had the crowns for 18 years, replacing them is the most practical option.

What Causes Infection Beneath a Crown?

Trapped bacteria and decay can cause infection beneath a crown. If the margin between your gums and the crown leaks, bacteria can seep in and cause decay.

Can Your Tooth Sensitivity Wait?

Invisalign upper and lower aligners

Invisalign treatment will be more comfortable after resolving tooth crown sensitivity

Delaying treatment allows an infection to spread. Your pain and sensitivity will increase without treatment. Your dentist recommended root canal treatment, and x-rays will confirm the condition of your teeth. You are welcome to get a second opinion, though. After a dentist resolves your tooth sensitivity, your Invisalign treatment will be more comfortable.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

 

 

My Dentist Is Retiring in the Middle of My Invisalign Treatment

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Invisalign upper and lower aligners

Find a dentist with Invisalign experienced and advanced cosmetic dentistry training

Hi. I’ve worn all but five sets of my Invisalign aligners. For unexpected reasons, my dentist must retire two years earlier than expected. He has referred his patients to two other dentists in town. I prefer not to see either dentist after my dentist retires in August. I have narrowed my choices to three dentists, but I don’t want to choose a dentist just because they are Invisalign certified. I am happy with the results of Invisalign, but I’m concerned about how my case will progress from here. Should this be a problem when I see a new dentist? – Nick from Lexington, KY

Nick,

Thank you for your question.

Can You Switch Dentists in the Middle of Invisalign Treatment?

You can switch dentists in the middle of Invisalign treatment. You will be able to continue your Invisalign treatment with ease after your dentist retires. Your dentist has an ethical obligation to ensure a smooth transition to your new dentist. Even so, it will not be difficult for a dentist to provide whatever you need to continue your treatment. You can request a copy of your dental records before your dentist retires. Also, the Invisalign company has your orthodontic history and will help your new dentist continue your care without interruption.

Ensure that the dentists you are considering are skilled Invisalign providers with experience in cases like yours. You can schedule consultations with one or all three dentists to discuss your concerns and case. You can also ask each dentist to show you before-and-after patient photos.

Dr. Steven Brooker, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a former Invisalign provider who switched to ClearCorrect® aligners for orthodontic treatment.

How Often Will I Change Invisalign Trays?

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Clear aligner trays similar to Invisalign and ClearCorrectInvisalign and other clear aligners can improve your smile faster than traditional braces—in half the time or less. After creating a 3-D model of your mouth, your dentist will develop a treatment plan to move your teeth gradually and precisely. Each set of clear trays that you wear will move your teeth closer to their final position. But how often will you change trays?

How Often Will You Change Invisalign Trays?

You will change Invisalign trays every one to two weeks if you wear the trays twenty to twenty-two hours daily. Your dentist will give you sets of aligners to keep at home and have available when it is time to switch to the next pair. Most invisible braces require you to change to a new set every one to two weeks.

What Determines When You Change Invisalign Trays?

The time frame for changing Invisalign trays depends on your case, the complexity of tooth movement, and your diligence in wearing the aligners as directed.

  • Your patient case – No two patients’ cases are the same. Depending on the stage of your treatment plan, when you switch aligners may vary between one and two weeks.
  • Complexity of tooth movement – It takes longer for Invisalign and other clear aligners to achieve complex tooth movements than simple tooth movements. When movement is complete and your teeth are stable, your dentist may advise you to move to the next set of aligners sooner than two weeks.
  • Wearing the aligners – It takes twenty to twenty-two hours of daily wear to move your teeth as outlined in your treatment plan. If you do not wear the aligners as directed, it will delay switching to the next set.

What Are Invisalign Alternatives?

Today’s invisible braces offer several alternatives to Invisalign. A dentist or orthodontist may work with various braces or aligners and decide which to use for specific cases. Some dentists use Invisalign only. Others achieve beautiful results with Invisalign alternatives like ClearCorrect®.

Schedule a Consultation for Clear Braces

Regardless of which brand of aligners you choose, look for an experienced dentist with advanced occlusion and bite and clear aligner training.

Schedule a consultation and ask questions:

  • How many orthodontic cases have you completed from start to finish?
  • How many cases like mine have you managed?
  • How long have you used clear aligners for patients?
  • Which brand do you use and why?
  • May I see patients’ before and after photos?

Straightening your teeth with braces or clear aligners can be an exciting change. Take time to research your options and provider.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

I haven’t worn Invisalign for weeks and now the trays don’t fit

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The month of May was crazy for our family, and I only wore Invisalign for the first few days. I was so distracted by a sudden death of a friend, illness, and travel that I kept forgetting to wear it. The worse thing about this is that I was seriously considering switching to another orthodontist. There is no way I am returning to the orthodontist I had because I am too embarrassed. I tried to put on my current set of Invisalign, but it wouldn’t fit! I am shocked that in a month I can’t get the aligners on. Should I go use an earlier set of aligners? I still have them. Thank you for your help. I’m embarrassed to call a dental office. Shana from Atlanta

Shana – We understand that you are embarrassed about your situation, but do not put off getting assistance. Anyone can experience life events that make it challenging to keep their routine. Please do not guess about which aligners to wear.

What If Your Invisalign Trays No Longer Fit?

If your Invisalign trays do not fit anymore, a dentist needs to examine your teeth. If you are not comfortable going back to your orthodontist at least once more, find another Invisalign provider. It may be as simple as going back to a previous set of aligners, but we do not want to advise you without an examination.

Invisalign upper and lower aligners

Look for a skilled Invisalign provider if you must switch dentists

Why Won’t Your Invisalign Trays Fit Anymore?

If you forget to wear Invisalign, your teeth will begin to shift back to their original position. The aligners will not fit properly. Do not worry, though. It will not be difficult to get back on track with your treatment.

How to Find a New Invisalign Dentist

If you do not already have an orthodontist or Invisalign dentist in mind, you can try the following:

  • Ask acquaintances for recommendations
  • Do an online search for an Invisalign provider in your area.
  • Ask how long the dentist has been treating patients with Invisalign and how many patients they have treated from start to finish
  • Check the Invisalign website for experienced providers near you.
  • Look for dentists’ online patient reviews.

Bring your Invisalign trays with you to the appointment with your new dentist. Eventually, you will need to sign a request form to transfer your dental records to the new practice.

Dr. Steven Brookser, an accredited cosmetic dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, sponsors this post.

Will Invisalign Work If I Have Missing Teeth?

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My bottom teeth are crooked. Two of my second bicuspids are primary teeth. One was painful, and my dentist extracted it. I’ll probably lose the other one soon. Also, I have a lower right molar that’s missing. I’m concerned about underbite and lack of space between my top and bottom teeth. Will Invisalign work if I have several missing teeth? I’m 47 years old, and I don’t want metal braces. Will I need dental implants too? Thanks. Joel from MO

Joel,

If you have missing teeth, Invisalign, and other types of invisible braces, will still work. But other factors determine if you’re a candidate for clear aligners.

Underbite and severe crowding can be obstacles to receiving Invisalign. Dentists vary in their willingness to take on those challenges with Invisalign. Orthodontists are more conservative and often shy away from the new technology. But expert orthodontists are on the Invisalign staff, and if they approve a case, Invisalign will work.

Visit two or three dentists who offer Invisalign or similar types of aligners to get their opinion on your case. Invisalign might close the spaces in your lower law and prevent the need for dental implants. Clear aligners might move your upper teeth out. It depends on the position of your teeth, though. Your dentist will take panoramic x-rays and send details about your case to the lab. You’ll get a treatment plan and learn what to expect. It can help you determine if you want to proceed with clear aligners or opt for low-profile braces.

Steven Brooksher, DDS, of Baton Rouge sponsors this post.

 

Is Invisalign My Only Option?

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Hi,

I want to get Invisalign, but am wondering if there is an alternative. I have seen advertisements for kits they send you in the mail for smile aligners, such as Candid. They say they can bill your insurance and do not seem like a scam. Is there an alternative to Invisalign or is that my only option?

Tara, from Saratoga Springs, New York

 

Hi Tara,

Invisalign has been around since 1997, and has been developing its product and system since then. Candid and companies like them are more recent.

While a remote company like Candid can bill insurance, some insurance companies are having trouble with them.Remote dentistry has only recently become billable, but most insurances require dentistry to be performed in-office by a licensed dentist. This makes Invisalign a better option than Candid or a different remote dentistry company.

Another issue with using a remote dentistry company is that dentistry such as Invisalign requires maintenance, observation, and follow-up appointments. With Invisalign, your dentist will see you every 6-8 weeks, if not more. Aligners like Invisalign can cause teeth to become stressed and experience trauma, and will need to be seen by a dentist immediately. Without a dentist to monitor the teeth, you may lose them.

Candid may be cheaper in some cases, but with Invisalign you do not need to worry about complaining to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or worry about your insurance not covering your aligners. Invisalign is a long-time, consumer trusted product, so if you are a candidate, you should look into it for your smile makeover.

This blog post is brought to you by Baton Rouge Invisalign provider, Dr. Steven Brooksher, of Dentistry by Brooksher.