Smile Makeover: Combining Dental Implants and Orthodontics

So, you’ve recently had a successful dental implant, but now you wish to address other aspects of your smile. You searched through multiple options and found that braces or some other orthodontic treatments would be a good solution.

The problem? Orthodontic treatments work to shift your teeth into alignment with various methods. Will the titanium post in your jawbone present a problem? Continue reading to explore this conundrum in more detail.

How Do Orthodontic Treatments Work?

While there are multiple types of orthodontic treatments available like traditional metal braces and Invisalign, they all perform the same function—moving teeth into their proper positions.

Your teeth aren’t immobile, even though they have roots like a tree. They are supported by your jawbone and held in place by your periodontal membrane. As you grow more teeth through childhood and adolescence, your mouth can become crowded.

This causes your teeth to shift in the gums and sometimes become crooked. Orthodontic treatments attempt to correct this through aligners or wires and bands to create tension and slowly pull teeth back into alignment.

Can I Have Orthodontic Treatments With Dental Implants?

Dental implants are different from your natural teeth in that the titanium post is fused with your jawbone, so it can’t move.

This isn’t a cause for despair, though. You can still use these orthodontic treatments even if you have an implant.

Instead of trying to move the prosthetic, your dentist will use your implant as an anchor point. This will allow the other teeth to move around your implant and restore your smile.

It’s important to note that if you do plan to have orthodontic treatment done after you receive an implant, it’s better to tell the dentist at that point rather than wait. Be open and discuss your long-term smile goals so you and your dentist can work together toward them.

Are There Advantages to Combining These Treatments?

Combining dental implants and orthodontic treatments provides a holistic approach to oral health and aesthetics. Dental implants will replace your lost teeth with a sturdy foundation while orthodontic treatments fix alignment issues.

Not only will this help you achieve a beautiful smile, but you’ll also enjoy improved oral function and long-term stability. It’s a win-win.

Even with the knowledge of how treatments work at your disposal, you may still have questions or concerns. If so, you should schedule a consultation with your dentist. Their expert advice will be worth the time and investment for peace of mind and a gorgeous grin.

About the Author

Dr. David S. Rosenfeld is a highly accomplished dentist with a caring personality. He graduated from the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery in New York City and became Chief Dental Resident in the year following his general residency program. He has also helped create and develop the oral implantology program at The Jamaica Hospital and Medical Center. To schedule a dental implant consultation at Rosenfeld Dental Associates, call (908) 668-7838 or visit the website to learn more.