Did you know that an estimated 75% of orthodontic patients are teenagers? Your teeth are more flexible in your jawbone in your youth, so it’s an ideal time to get braces to straighten them. However, many adults are surprised to discover that their grins have become somewhat overcrowded or overlapped again, sometimes years after completing orthodontics.
At Smile312, our Chicago dental team is dedicated to providing exceptional care for every smile. From routine checkups to advanced treatments, we combine expertise, compassion, and modern technology to keep your teeth healthy and your experience stress-free. Discover dentistry that puts your comfort and wellness first.
Invisalign is an ideal solution for mildly misaligned teeth, but many patients wonder whether it’s feasible to undergo treatment if they’ve already had traditional braces. Continue reading to learn more about why you can safely set your concerns aside!
Even if you have successfully completed braces, your teeth can shift out of their proper places years after their removal. There are several potential reasons for this, like not wearing your retainer as recommended when your orthodontics were taken off, chronic teeth grinding, or the arrival of wisdom teeth. However, it’s also possible they shifted due to the ongoing pressure from daily tasks like biting and chewing that affected them over time, which is beyond your control.
You might think of your crooked grin as more of a cosmetic concern than an oral issue, but your condition can also affect your dental well-being. If your teeth are pressed too closely together or overlap, it’s difficult to reach all sides to brush and floss them thoroughly. Bacteria in your mouth can form plaque on your enamel and along your gum line, increasing the likelihood of developing tooth decay, gum disease, or other concerns.
Many patients are unsure whether Invisalign will be effective if their teeth have already begun reverting to their previous positions. Thankfully, it’s perfectly possible to undergo this alternative orthodontic treatment regardless of whether you’ve worn braces previously. Plus, it’s considered a less invasive option because it doesn’t interfere with your daily routines.
Clear aligners don’t require dietary restrictions because they can be removed during meals, for example. Not only that, but the smooth plastic won’t poke the tender tissues inside your mouth like metal brackets and wires. Furthermore, treatment can often be completed in as few as 12 months rather than the years it takes braces to do the same work.
Usually, it’s perfectly acceptable to pursue Invisalign even if you’ve already had a treatment to straighten your smile. Still, the best way to find out if you’re a good candidate is to schedule a consultation with your dentist!
Dr. Harvey Mahler has been helping patients of all ages build their happiest, healthiest smiles for 30+ years. He graduated from the Georgetown University School of Dentistry and is an active member of the American Dental Association. He’s also a national speaker who has attended CDS branches and study clubs and is a recurrent guest on Channel 5 and 9. He combines compassionate care with state-of-the-art technology to provide comprehensive services to meet your family’s needs under one roof, including Invisalign. You can request a consultation on the website or call (312) 224-9916.
Our patients’ satisfaction is our top priority. From routine checkups to advanced dental care, we make sure every smile leaves our office healthier and happier.
Experience is always top tier! Staff and doctor very friendly
Our entire family have had an excellent experience with Dr. Mahler and his staff over the past 20 years. The office staff is always polite and efficient. Appointments have been easy to schedule, and we have rarely waited even a few minutes to be seen once in the office. Dr. Mahler... read more
Always 5 stars! He’s THE expert in TMJ and problem cases like mine😁
Dr Mahler is considerate to your concerns and will give you the best course of treatment. He does a great job with my cleaning. Great location for anyone in the Loop.
Dr Mahler and his staff at Smile 312 are the best. They’re friendly, and they listen to all your concerns and they respect your time. I went to see Dr Mahler for TMJ treatment and from day one his recommendations have made a big difference on my discomfort level.... read more
OnI of the most comprehensive and thorough dentists with real interest in the patients and best care for them. I would recommend Dr Mahler to others looking for an experienced and caring dentist. Their staff is also amazing.
When I first arrived at Smile312, my mouth was in complete disarray—I honestly didn’t even know where to begin. That all changed when I met Dr. Mohler. From our very first interaction, he established a sense of trust and professionalism that immediately put me at ease. He took the time... read more
312 Smile is the best, they are definitely 5 star, they always take good care of their patients dental needs. 😊
Always superb.
Dr. Mahler really took his time with me and made me feel listened to. The consultation I had was a very positive experience.
