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.
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
Dr. Mahler really took his time with me and made me feel listened to. The consultation I had was a very positive experience.
I’ve been a happy patient of Smile 312 for 20 years. Seeing Dr. Mahler really changed the trajectory of my oral health. Charming office, personable staff, painless procedures, and efficiently ran - Very minimum wait time, if any! I’m spoiled for sure.
Flawless.
I can't recommend Dr. Mahler highly enough! He is the best dentist I have ever had, combining exceptional professionalism with deep knowledge and expertise. His team is equally outstanding, making every visit smooth and pleasant. I first came to him after a distressing experience with another dentist, and Dr. Mahler... read more
Always 5 stars! He’s THE expert in TMJ and problem cases like mine😁
Dr Mahler is very knowledgeable and thoughtful. He will do what’s best for his patient and walk you through the process so you are fully informed. His staff is also very helpful and customer centric. Great practice!
I had a wonderful experience at the dentist office today. Dr. Mahler is an excellent dentist. He takes his time and explains to you was he's doing while he performs his job. His staff is very professional and kind.
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.
Excellent service. I felt very comfortable.
