Having existing dental work does not automatically disqualify you from Invisalign — but it does introduce considerations your provider needs to evaluate carefully.
Crowns and Invisalign
Dental crowns can generally be included in Invisalign treatment, but they present a specific challenge: the smooth, hard surface of a crown does not retain Invisalign attachments as well as natural enamel. Attachments are small tooth-coloured bumps bonded to the teeth to help aligners apply precise forces. If an attachment needs to go on a crown, it may not bond as reliably. Your provider may plan the treatment to avoid placing attachments on crowned teeth where possible, or they may use special bonding protocols.
Bridges and Invisalign
A dental bridge connects multiple teeth together and cannot be separated by aligners. This means the bridged teeth cannot be moved independently. If the teeth that need movement include bridged teeth, Invisalign may not be appropriate — or the bridge may need to be replaced with individual crowns on implants first, which then can be moved. This is a significant consideration your provider will assess at your consultation.
Implants and Invisalign
Dental implants are fused to the jawbone and cannot be moved with orthodontic forces. An implant-supported crown stays in place while surrounding teeth can be repositioned around it. This requires careful planning — in some cases, Invisalign can be used to create space or position the adjacent teeth optimally before or after implant placement.
Getting an Accurate Assessment
The only way to know definitively whether Invisalign can work for your specific dental situation is a comprehensive consultation with scans and X-rays. At Smileworks Dental in Calgary, consultations are complimentary. We will review your existing dental work, take a 3D digital scan, and give you an honest assessment of whether Invisalign can achieve your goals — and if not, what alternatives exist.