I wore Invisalign for 14 months and had to relocate from FL to NJ to be closer to family. I was almost finished with Invisalign and got my final sets of aligners before I moved, so I didn’t see a dentist in NJ. Something went wrong, though. Caregiving was so time-consuming, so I decided to finish the aligners on my own. I’ve used my last set of trays as a retainer, but I have gaps between my teeth, and my upper left back molar teeth are crooked. Either I can do nothing (a waste of money and time, right?) or get a dentist to examine my teeth and see how long I would need to get my teeth straight. Since Invisalign went wrong, should I switch to braces? Thanks. Ian
Ian,
Thank you for contacting Bayou Dental Group. Dr. Finley would need to complete an exam and x-rays and review your Invisalign case before recommending treatment. Yes, you should see an experienced Invisalign doctor and not leave misaligned teeth and your oral health unresolved.
If Invisalign Went Wrong, Should You Switch to Braces?
If your Invisalign treatment is unsuccessful, a skilled Invisalign dentist would need to determine your treatment with these steps:
- Examine your teeth
- Take digital x-rays
- Communicate with the Invisalign lab and your previous dentist regarding your case
We realize that your relocation and caregiving interrupted your treatment schedule. It is commendable that you can assist your family.
Sometimes, attempting to finish orthodontic care without a dentist’s supervision can lead to unexpected results. Your follow-up visits during orthodontic treatment help your dentist understand whether your treatment needs adjustments. For example, dentists may recommend Invisalign attachments or extra aligners to complete tooth movement. Still, factors other than continuing treatment without a dentist may have influenced your outcome, and a skilled Invisalign dentist can identify them.
Will you need to switch from Invisalign to braces?
You may not need to switch from Invisalign to braces, but only a skilled provider can determine that. Please schedule an appointment with an experienced Invisalign doctor to review your case, communicate with the Invisalign lab, and identify the best treatment method for aligning your teeth.
After orthodontic treatment, your new dentist will recommend wearing retainers to keep your teeth in the correct position.
The Monroe, Louisiana, dentists at Bayou Dental Group sponsor this post. Please read about Dr. Henderson’s, Dr. Finley’s, and Dr. Coughran’s commitment to offering their patients some of the best dental care in Monroe.