When a child's Invisalign aligner accidentally removes a baby tooth, it's typically not a cause for alarm. Baby teeth naturally become loose as they prepare to fall out, and dental aligners can sometimes accelerate this process. The gentle pressure applied by Invisalign trays may dislodge teeth that were already nearing their natural shedding time.
Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, are designed to be temporary. They typically begin to loosen and fall out between ages 6 and 12 as permanent teeth develop beneath them. The process of tooth loss involves the roots of baby teeth gradually dissolving, making them increasingly mobile until they eventually fall out with minimal force.
Invisalign aligners work by applying controlled pressure to teeth to guide them into proper alignment. When a baby tooth is already loose due to natural root resorption, the consistent pressure from the aligner can provide just enough additional force to complete the separation process. This is particularly common with:
While this occurrence is generally harmless, there are situations where consulting an orthodontist is advisable:
Most orthodontists anticipate that baby teeth may be dislodged during Invisalign treatment, especially in mixed dentition (when children have both baby and permanent teeth). This is often considered a normal part of the treatment process rather than a complication. The aligner treatment can typically continue as planned, with possible minor adjustments to accommodate the new dental landscape.
Remember that every child's dental development is unique, and professional guidance from your orthodontist remains the best source of personalized advice for your daughter's specific situation.
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