Do I Need To Extract Teeth If I am Considering Invisalign?

If you are considering getting Invisalign to straighten out your teeth, you might also be wondering if you will need any of your teeth extracted. This is an excellent question. However, the answer actually comes on a case-by-case basis. There are a few different factors that will determine if any of your teeth will need to be removed.

Is It Common

Teeth extraction is not all that common as a recommended co-treatment with Invisalign. It does happen, though, and if your orthodontist in Flower Mound has told you that you need to have it done, there is nothing to be worried about. It is a relatively quick procedure that won’t have you laid up for days.

Which Teeth Are Typically Extracted?

The teeth that oral surgeons typically extract are the bicuspid. These are the teeth that are located in between your eye teeth and your molars. This gives the orthodontist more room to work with the braces. There is also a small possibility that severely damaged teeth or those that are impacted are also removed to make way for the Flower Mound Invisalign appliance that will straighten your teeth and improve your smile.

Who Removes The Teeth?

Contrary to popular belief, the orthodontist in Flower Mound is not the doctor who will be removing the teeth. They actually are the ones to determine if extraction is necessary, and if it is, they will direct the patient to an oral surgeon where the removal can be completed. After the extraction site has healed, the orthodontist will then proceed with the Invisalign treatment.

How Long Do I Need To Wear The Invisalign Appliance?

This is definitely a matter of “it depends” in the truest sense of the phrase. It basically boils down to how far of a gap the device is meant to close in your personal situation as well as taking into account any prevention methods that the doctor recommends. Typically, the Flower Mound Invisalign tray is worn for anywhere between 3 to 6 months. In addition, it will have to be worn for approximately 22 hours per day, removed only for eating and brushing your teeth.

Are There Alternatives To Tooth Extraction?

In fact, if the patient is adamant they do not want any of their teeth removed, there are a handful of alternatives that might be appropriate for their specific situation. These include such things as an operation on the jaw in the case of severe over- or underbite. However, this is a lengthy procedure and many orthodontists do not typically recommend it. There is also a procedure known as tooth reshaping, which is an option for those whose teeth have become misshapen.

If you are interested in learning more about tooth extraction during Invisalign treatment, please contact Bailey Orthodontics and a member of our experienced staff can answer any questions that you may have.