Many people dream of having a straighter smile, but life doesn’t always go according to plan. Sometimes, dental issues arise that lead to tooth loss and the need for dentures. If you’re someone who wears dentures and has wondered whether it’s still possible to straighten your teeth with proper guidance from a Markham dentist, you’re not alone. It’s a common question—and one we get often at our dental office in Markham.
So, can you get Invisalign after getting dentures? The short answer: it depends on your situation. In this blog, we’ll break down when Invisalign might be an option after dentures, how it works, and what alternatives exist if you’re not a candidate. Let’s get into it.
Understanding Dentures and Tooth Loss
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth. They can be partial (replacing some teeth) or full (replacing all teeth in the upper or lower arch). Many people who wear dentures lost their natural teeth due to decay, gum disease, trauma, or age-related changes.
Once you’ve lost most or all of your natural teeth, your oral structure changes. Your jawbone begins to shrink over time, and the alignment of your bite is no longer the same as it was with your natural teeth. This change often raises the question: can anything be done to align or improve the smile after dentures?
Invisalign and How It Works
Invisalign is a popular clear aligner system that straightens teeth without the need for traditional braces. It works by applying gentle, consistent pressure to shift natural teeth into the desired position. Each set of aligners is custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and is changed every couple of weeks to continue progress.
However, for Invisalign to work, you need to have healthy, natural teeth that can be moved. That’s where the complication arises for denture-wearers.
If you have a full set of dentures and no natural teeth, Invisalign isn’t an option because there’s nothing for the aligners to move. But if you wear partial dentures and still have some natural teeth remaining, there’s good news. Invisalign may still be a viable option for you—especially if your remaining teeth are strong and healthy. In such cases, Invisalign in Markham can help improve alignment and give you a more confident smile.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign After Dentures?
To determine whether you qualify for Invisalign after getting dentures, your dentist will evaluate:
How many natural teeth you have left
The health and strength of those teeth
The condition of your gums and jawbone
Whether your partial dentures will interfere with the aligners
Some patients may need dental implants first if they are missing teeth but still want to undergo Invisalign treatment. Implants provide a stable foundation and prevent bone loss, making it possible to design a personalized orthodontic plan that includes both implants and aligners.
If you’re unsure where you stand, it’s essential to book a consultation with an experienced Markham Dentist. Only a detailed assessment can determine if Invisalign is right for you after dentures.
What Are the Alternatives If Invisalign Isn’t an Option?
If you are not a candidate for Invisalign because you no longer have natural teeth, don’t worry—there are other ways to improve the appearance and function of your smile.
Some of the most effective alternatives include:
Implant-supported dentures: These are dentures anchored by dental implants, offering improved stability and function.
Fixed bridges with implants: Ideal for patients missing several teeth but not the full arch.
Cosmetic dentures: Custom-made dentures designed to give a more natural and attractive appearance.
These options can often restore facial aesthetics, improve chewing, and give a significant confidence boost. Your dentist will work closely with you to select the best option for your needs.
Invisalign for Younger Adults with Partial Tooth Loss
In some cases, younger adults may lose a few teeth due to trauma or other dental issues and wear partial dentures while keeping most of their natural teeth. For these patients, Invisalign can be a game-changer.
With proper planning, Invisalign aligners can be crafted to work around the missing spaces or existing dental work, helping straighten the rest of the teeth. In fact, some aligner systems are flexible enough to include space planning for future implants or bridges.
Always make sure you’re working with a knowledgeable provider who understands how to coordinate Invisalign with restorative treatments.
Final Thoughts: Talk to a Markham Dentist About Your Options
So, can you get Invisalign after dentures? The answer is yes—for some people. If you have partial dentures and healthy natural teeth, Invisalign may be a great way to straighten your smile. But if you’ve lost all your teeth, you’ll need to explore other cosmetic and restorative dental options instead.
At Markville Dental, we’ve helped many patients who wear dentures understand their options and choose the best path toward a confident, functional smile. Whether you’re interested in Invisalign, dental implants, or advanced dentures, our team is here to help.
If you’re looking for a Markham dentist’s clinic near you that offers personalized care and the latest in dental technology, book your consultation with us today. We’ll assess your needs, answer your questions, and guide you toward the solution that’s best for your long-term oral health.