Living with missing teeth can impact much more than just your oral health—it can affect your self-confidence, speech, and overall quality of life. Choosing dental implants to restore your smile is a big step toward improving your well-being. However, if gaps in your smile have been left unaddressed for an extended period, there are important considerations to take into account.

At Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we work closely with other dental professionals to ensure every patient receives the best outcome possible. If you’ve experienced tooth loss, our periodontists in Raleigh are here to help restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile through a collaborative approach. In many cases, orthodontic care may be needed to ensure your implant placement is successful and long-lasting.

How Missing Teeth Impact Alignment

Teeth are designed to shift slightly over time, a natural movement influenced by periodontal ligaments and cementum—a specialized bone-like material. When a tooth is lost, however, the neighboring teeth lose their natural support and may drift into the empty space. If this has occurred, orthodontic treatment may be needed to reposition your teeth before implants can be placed.

Without realigning these teeth, there may not be enough space or stability for a dental implant to integrate properly. This makes orthodontic care an essential first step for many patients on the path to a restored smile.

Orthodontics: Preparing Your Smile for Implants

Orthodontic treatment gently moves teeth into their proper positions, creating the ideal foundation for dental implants. While traditional metal braces remain an effective solution, they can be visually noticeable, which may not be ideal for every patient. Fortunately, there are several modern alternatives that offer more discreet solutions.

Invisalign: A Subtle Option for Realignment

For adults seeking a less noticeable way to align their teeth, Invisalign is an excellent choice. Invisalign uses clear, custom-fitted trays that are replaced every two weeks to gradually shift your teeth into alignment. Like braces, Invisalign prepares your smile for dental implants, but with the added benefit of being virtually invisible. This discreet approach allows you to maintain confidence throughout your treatment.

A Collaborative Approach to Your Smile

At Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we understand that restoring your smile takes a team effort. We collaborate with orthodontists and other specialists to ensure that every step of your treatment aligns with your long-term goals. Whether you need braces or Invisalign to prepare for implants, our periodontists in Raleigh are here to guide you through the process.

If you have questions about your treatment or are ready to take the next step toward a complete smile, we invite you to contact our office today. At Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to helping you regain confidence with a smile that looks and feels great. We’re here to support you every step of the way, from alignment to implant placement, so you can enjoy a lifetime of oral health and happiness.

Let us help you achieve the smile you’ve been dreaming of—your journey starts here!