If you’re considering clear aligners but have cavities or crowns, you might wonder, “Can I still get Invisalign?” The short answer is yes, in many cases but the condition of your teeth and restorations matters. At Cold Lake & St. Paul Orthodontics, Dr. Arora helps patients of all ages through personalized orthodontic treatment plans and before starting your aligner journey, Dr. Arora will carefully check your oral health and any existing dental work to make sure your smile is ready for treatment.
Can You Start Invisalign if You Have Cavities?
It’s usually recommended to treat any active tooth decay before beginning Invisalign.
Here’s why:
- Cavities weaken the structure of your teeth, and since clear aligners fit snugly, untreated decay can trap bacteria or food particles.
- Filling a cavity can slightly change the shape of your tooth, which could affect how well the aligner fits.
That’s why Dr. Arora often suggests completing any dental restorations first. Once your cavities are filled and your teeth are healthy, you can safely begin your clear aligner treatment.
Can You Wear Invisalign When You Have Crowns?
Yes, having one or more dental crowns doesn’t automatically disqualify you from Invisalign.
However, there are a few important considerations:
- The crown must be strong and securely bonded. If it’s loose, treatment may need to wait.
- Invisalign trays must be custom-designed to fit precisely over your teeth, including any crowned teeth.
- Dr. Arora will review whether your crowns can move along with your teeth or if adjustments are needed in your aligner plan.
What the Process Looks Like at Cold Lake & St. Paul Orthodontics
| Step | What Happens |
| Initial Exam | Dr. Arora examines your teeth, gums, crowns, and checks for cavities. |
| Dental Cleaning or Restorative Work | If cavities or loose crowns are found, they’re treated before starting Invisalign. |
| Clear Aligner Planning | Digital scans are taken to plan your aligner sequence precisely. |
| Monitoring | Regular visits ensure your aligners fit well and teeth are moving as expected. |
| Completion & Retention | After treatment, a retainer plan is designed to maintain your new smile. |
Benefits of Treating Dental Issues Before Aligners
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
| Better Aligner Fit | Ensures trays fit snugly and apply the right pressure. |
| Reduced Risk of Complications | Healthy teeth and crowns lower the chance of discomfort or delays. |
| Smoother Treatment Timeline | Stable oral health means fewer interruptions. |
| Stronger Long-Term Results | Healthy restorations and aligned teeth last longer. |
Quick Recap
- You can start Invisalign even if you have crowns or previously had cavities, just make sure your dental health is stable first.
- Cavities should be treated before starting aligners to prevent decay and ensure a proper fit.
- Crowns are typically fine for Invisalign as long as they’re secure and your treatment plan accounts for them.
- Ongoing monitoring by Dr. Arora ensures your aligner journey stays comfortable and effective.
Ready to Begin Your Clear Aligner Journey?
If you’re in Cold Lake, St. Paul, or nearby communities, Dr. Arora and the team at Cold Lake & St. Paul Orthodontics are here to help you find the best orthodontic solution for your smile. Schedule a consultation today to discover whether Invisalign is the right fit for you and enjoy a healthier, more confident smile.