Spoiler Alert: In most cases, yes, you can still get clear aligners with missing teeth! In fact, at Spillers Orthodontics, we’re proud to provide both braces and clear aligner treatment for all ages and case complexities.
Our orthodontists’ level of skill and experience enables us to treat you with your preferred treatment option. If you have missing teeth and need orthodontics, we can develop a plan to help you achieve your goals.
At your complimentary consultation with Dr. Spillers or Dr. Gordon, your orthodontist will perform a full exam of your smile to help you determine the best treatment route moving forward.
In the meantime, here’s everything you need to know about getting SO Clear Aligners or Invisalign with missing teeth:
What causes missing teeth?
The most common causes of missing teeth include:
- Traumatic injury
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Oral cancer
- Congenital condition (condition present at birth)
The American College of Prosthodontists estimates that 120 million U.S. Americans are missing at least one tooth.
Why would I need clear aligners with missing teeth?
If you have missing teeth, you may or may not need orthodontic treatment. It all depends on the positions of your teeth and the alignment of your jaw bones.
In many cases with missing teeth, the surrounding teeth will start to drift to fill the spaces. As teeth drift, this can create new orthodontic problems, including crowding and malocclusions (bite misalignment).
Missing teeth can create orthodontic problems at any stage of life. Studies by the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics show that “craniofacial growth does not stop in young adulthood but is a continuous process even into later ages.”
Orthodontic problems can affect your quality of life, including your confidence, self-esteem, chewing, and bite functionality.
Clear Aligners and Invisalign with Missing Teeth
Clear aligners may be used while teeth are missing! In some cases, the patient may require a space maintainer to preserve the space created by a missing tooth or teeth. Space maintainers prevent teeth from drifting over and creating a more severe misalignment.
If the missing tooth needs to be replaced, we can use a space maintainer to hold space for the restoration as well. If your case requires a space maintainer, your orthodontist will explain the process to you!
Clear aligners or braces can then be placed on teeth to close gaps, hold certain gaps open, or create more space in the mouth.
Can I get Invisalign with missing molars?
Yes, in many cases, patients can still get clear aligners or Invisalign with missing molars.
Depending on your specific case, we may recommend either Invisalign, SO Clear Aligners, and/or an appliance to achieve incredible results. SO Clear Aligners are our very own clear aligners printed in-house in our lab! These clear aligners are high-quality, affordable, and specially designed for minor tooth movement and overall aesthetics.
We will help you find a solution that suits your budget and helps you love your smile for years to come.
Great smiles begin at Spillers Orthodontics!
The best way to determine whether you’re a good candidate for orthodontic treatment is by visiting us for a complimentary consultation. Dr. Spillers or Dr. Gordon will perform a full examination of your smile and present your treatment options to help you make the best decision for your smile.
It takes $0 to find out if you’re a good candidate for orthodontics! You deserve to live your most confident life. Request a complimentary exam with us in Warner Robins or Macon.
