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March 6, 2025Invisalign aligners are a great way to straighten your teeth without metal brackets or wires. This dental solution offers comfort, convenience, and a nearly invisible look. But it may come with some side effects, like root resorption. Here, we are to tell you all about invisalign root resorption. Keep reading to learn more.
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ToggleThe Connection Between Invisalign and Root Resorption
Root resorption is a process where the body breaks down and absorbs the root structure of a tooth. When the body sees the tooth root as unnecessary, specialized cells called osteoclasts begin to dissolve the root and cause it to shrink or disappear.
Invisalign moves teeth by applying gentle pressure. Over time, this pressure may cause minor root resorption. The main causes of invisalign root resorption include excessive pressure from aligners, longer treatment duration, genetics, and rapid or aggressive tooth movement.
Don’t forget that these factors can increase the risk:
- History of dental trauma or injury to teeth.
- Poor oral health, like untreated gum disease or tooth decay.
- Pre-existing dental conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding).
- Inadequate or inconsistent use of aligners which causes uneven pressure.
- Underlying health conditions like osteoporosis that affect bone density.
- Smoking or other lifestyle factors that can weaken gum tissue and bone.
Does Invisalign Cause Root Resorption?
Yes, Invisalign can cause minor root resorption like any other orthodontic treatment. As the aligners apply pressure on your teeth, this force can sometimes cause the body to break down and absorb a small portion of the tooth’s root, a process called root resorption. This can lead to minor shortening of the root. But you don’t need to worry if you choose a skilled dentist. A good orthodontist carefully tracks changes in your teeth to prevent complications like root canals Phoenix Az.
Signs of Invisalign Root Resorption
The most common symptoms of invisalign root resorption include:
- Feeling teeth becoming loose or wobbly.
- Experiencing sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Noticing swelling or redness around the gums of affected teeth.
- Having pain or discomfort when chewing.
- Seeing teeth shift unevenly or fail to respond to aligner changes.
- Feeling tenderness around the gums or teeth.
- Observing changes in your bite or tooth alignment.
How Common Is Root Resorption with Invisalign?
Root resorption happens in many orthodontic patients. Over 90% of Invisalign users experience some level of root resorption:
- Most cases involve minimal resorption (usually less than 2 millimeters).
- 5-10% of patients may experience severe resorption that affects tooth stability.
- Many cases have no long-term impact on tooth strength or function.
Preventing Root Resorption with Invisalign
Do the following to prevent invisalign root resorption:
- Choose an experienced provider to ensure proper treatment planning.
- Follow the prescribed aligner wear schedule to avoid excessive pressure.
- Attend regular checkups to find any root changes early and prevent problems related to root canal Phoenix.
- Maintain good oral health to keep your tooth roots strong.
- Ensure gradual adjustments to avoid aggressive tooth movement.
- Treat existing dental issues before starting treatment to reduce risks.
How Can an Invisalign Provider Fix Root Damage?
You better know that most cases of root resorption don’t require any treatment. If you take the proper care of the affected teeth, it can remain strong and functional. Yet, if it becomes a concern, your dentist or root canals dentist Phoenix will do the following to treat invisalign root resorption:
- If you have mild resorption, your dentist may simply monitor the situation over time.
- For some cases, the dentist temporarily pauses your Invisalign treatment to give your teeth a break.
- For those with a severe problem, root canal or other procedures might be needed to help strengthen the affected tooth.
Invisalign Root Resorption Treatment Near Me in Phoenix
If you’re looking for expert care in Phoenix, we’re here to help. At Central Valley Dentistry, our experienced orthodontists monitor your treatment to ensure your teeth stay healthy throughout the process. If we notice resorption, we provide you with personalized treatment options. All you need to do is make an online appointment for a free consultation for contact us at (602) 246-0385.
Let’s Wrap Up
Considering all the above-mentioned, invisalign is a fantastic way to achieve a straight smile, but root resorption can happen. Regular checkups and a skilled provider can help to avoid possible complications. In this guide, we tried to answer all your questions regarding invisalign root resorption. If you still have questions in mind, contact us right now.
FAQs
Yes, invisalign can cause minor root resorption, just like braces. However, most cases are mild and do not harm long-term tooth health.
No, retainers do not move teeth, so they do not cause root resorption. They simply hold teeth in place after treatment.
In rare cases, Invisalign may shorten tooth roots slightly, but this usually does not impact tooth function.
Teeth with minor root resorption can last a lifetime with proper care. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene keep them strong.