Can You Get Invisalign® with Missing Teeth?

A missing tooth can change how you feel about your smile. If you’re thinking about straightening your teeth, you might assume that a gap automatically takes Invisalign® treatment off the table. 

The good news is that you can often still achieve your smile goals with clear aligners. In many cases, having a missing tooth doesn’t prevent you from getting Invisalign® treatment, as it can be customized to your unique situation. It all starts with a personalized plan that looks at the big picture of your dental health.

What Invisalign® Treats & How It Works

Invisalign® treatment uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions. It’s a popular choice because the trays are nearly invisible and you can remove them to eat and drink. This treatment can effectively address many common bite and alignment issues.

Common Alignment Corrections

• Gap in between teeth
• Crossbite
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Open bite
• Crowded teeth

Digital Scans Instead of Impressions

We use innovative iTero 3D scanning to create a precise digital map of your mouth. This technology eliminates the need for uncomfortable, goopy impressions. You just relax in the chair as we capture images that help us produce perfectly fitting aligners for your treatment.

Your Custom Invisalign® Plan with a Missing Tooth

Your journey begins with a conversation about your goals. We focus on creating a customized plan that only includes action when it’s truly needed. We take the time to explain the why behind every recommendation.

Assess Your Oral Health

Before we start, we’ll check the health of your gums and jawbone. Any underlying issues, like the early stages of gum disease, need to be addressed first. A healthy foundation is important for any successful orthodontic treatment.

Plan for Your Future Smile

Your treatment plan will include a strategy for the empty space. We can use clear aligners to hold the space open for a future tooth replacement or even create the perfect amount of room. This approach helps prevent nearby teeth from drifting into the gap, which is crucial for maintaining proper alignment and function, similar to the role a dental bridge serves.

How Invisalign® Manages Different Missing Teeth

The location of your missing tooth plays a big role in your treatment plan. A gap at the back of your mouth is handled differently than a missing front tooth. We always provide you with options that make sense for your smile.

A Missing Back Molar

Your molars are the largest teeth in your mouth and act as powerful anchors for your bite. If you’re missing a molar, the plan might involve replacing it before, during, or after Invisalign® treatment. This is an important part of a comprehensive orthodontic treatment plan to keep your bite stable and functional.

A Pontic for a Missing Front Tooth

For a gap you can see when you smile, a temporary false tooth (called a pontic) can fill the space while your treatment is ongoing. We can place a tooth-coloured material inside your aligner tray where the tooth is missing. This creates the appearance of a full smile, so you can feel good while your teeth are on the move.

Close Gaps or Prepare for a New Tooth?

People often ask if Invisalign® treatment can simply close the gap where a tooth used to be. The answer depends on the size of the space and your overall treatment goals. As Invisalign® providers, we’ll walk you through what’s possible for your unique smile.

Shift Teeth to Close Small Gaps

Invisalign® treatment is very effective at closing small to medium-sized gaps between teeth. The aligners apply gentle, consistent pressure to guide the teeth together. This is a common goal for many people seeking a more uniform smile.

Prepare for Restorative Work for Large Gaps

For a larger gap, Invisalign® treatment is typically used to align the surrounding teeth perfectly. This creates the ideal space for a permanent replacement, like a long-lasting dental implant or bridge. This thoughtful preparation can lead to a more balanced and lasting final result.

Coordinate Your Smile Journey with Other Treatments

Your Invisalign® treatment plan can work hand-in-hand with other restorative treatments to build your ideal smile. We help coordinate the timing for a smooth process from start to finish. We believe in patient education, so you’ll always be in the know about your options.

Dental Implants & Bridges

A dental implant can be placed before clear aligners to act as an anchor point, or it can be done after your teeth are aligned. A dental bridge is usually placed after your Invisalign® treatment is complete. 

Find the Right Path for You

Invisalign® treatment can be great, but it is only one of several options. If your case involves very complex bite issues, another approach like traditional braces may be suggested. Our promise is to provide you with the care you need—and nothing you don’t.Your smile journey is personal, and our team at McKenzie Towne Family Dental is here to support you every step of the way. We listen to your goals and help you explore all your options in a comfortable, no-pressure environment. Schedule your complimentary smile evaluation with us today to find out what’s possible for you.