The Science: Why Implants Don’t Move Like Natural Teeth

You might wonder why it’s trickier to get braces with tooth implant. Both dental implants and natural teeth are attached to the jawbone, but in a different way:

• A tooth is secured in its socket via the periodontal ligament, which allows slight movement while chewing. This is used in orthodontics to move teeth into proper positions.
• Dental implants are rigidly fixed to the jawbone by osseointegration, so braces can’t shift them.

Getting braces after implants is possible: an experienced orthodontist can develop a customized treatment plan that envisages utmost implant stability, while other teeth are gently moved.

Scenario 1: Using an Implant as an Anchor for Braces

An implant can serve as an anchor point for braces. Your doctor may choose to attach a bracket to a temporary crown or abutment to move other teeth, but it’s not always required. Sometimes, a treatment plan doesn’t involve placing a bracket on an artificial tooth. This mostly depends on its position in your oral cavity.

Scenario 2: Getting Braces Before an Implant (The Ideal Sequence)

Though getting braces with implants is possible, dentists recommend undergoing orthodontic treatment before titanium post placement. This sequence provides more freedom for natural tooth movement, as it is not limited by a fixed implant position. 

Feature/Precondition	Braces Before an Implant	Braces After an Implant
Treatment Planning	An orthodontist can create the required space for a future implant and ensure better alignment.	The location of the implant should be considered for secure tooth movement. It requires careful planning to preserve your artificial tooth’s safety and integrity.
Aesthetics	This option may provide a better visuality since with implant, it’s preferable not to shift the adjacent teeth.	If an implant is not positioned properly, it may look misaligned when other teeth straighten.
Timeline	18–30 months of orthodontic treatment coupled with dental surgery, plus at least 6 months for successful osseointegration.	With a dental implant, you should count on orthodontic treatment alone, which is typically 18–30 months, depending on the case complexity.
Cost	The expenditures for orthodontic treatment involve: diagnostic X-rays and 3D scans, braces installation, adjustment appointments, and retainers. You’ll also have to pay for the titanium post, abutment, dental crown, and the surgical procedure.	Since you already have an implant, it eliminates the need for oral surgery and the related costs. You’ll have to pay for braces only.

Braces vs Invisalign With Dental Implants

Now that you can positively answer, “Can you get braces with implants?” let’s consider another popular option for teeth repositioning, Invisalign. Clear aligners can be designed to shift the position of other teeth without disturbing an implant. They work similarly to braces but are more convenient to use: you can take the trays while eating and drinking, but have to wear them no less than 20–22 hours a day.

Braces and Implants: Potential Challenges and Risks

The question of “Can you get braces if you have an implant?” is no longer a dilemma, but you should be aware of potential risks and hurdles:

• Limited Tooth Movement. Implants can’t be repositioned by clear aligners or braces, which may restrict perfect alignment.
• Implant Failure. In certain cases, the movement of adjacent teeth can cause implant loosening and consequent failure. It’s crucial to address an experienced orthodontist who has dealt with similar issues and can create a customized treatment plan for you.
• Peri-Implantitis. Braces demand exceptional oral hygiene. If you aren’t determined to brush your teeth after each meal, it can cause inflammation around the implant.
• Jawbone Issues. Sometimes, braces may affect the health of the surrounding jawbone. It should be strong enough to endure tooth movement.

All these challenges are defined by a more intricate planning caused by implant stability. The chances for aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting results increase if your orthodontist and oral surgeon work together. If you want to achieve a well-aligned smile and preserve your prosthetic tooth, contact us and book an appointment with an experienced doctor to get recommendations based on your dental needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Resources

Learn what scholars say about implant interactions with orthodontics and discover what the term “absolute anchorage” means.