What Most Patients Aren’t Told About Invisalign

Invisalign is often marketed as a safe, simple, and subtle alternative to braces—but there’s a side of the story many patients never hear. While aligners may straighten your teeth, they can sometimes create unintended consequences for your gums and bone health. According to Southfield periodontist Dr. Joseph Nemeth, he’s seen more than a few patients walk in with serious recession and even tooth mobility after completing their orthodontic treatment.

The Hidden Link Between Orthodontics and Gum Loss

Here’s the issue: when teeth are shifted too far outside their natural bone support, the gums can recede and bone loss may occur. Dr. Nemeth explains that while patients often notice longer-looking teeth, the real danger is what’s happening beneath the surface—structural loss of bone around the roots. That’s what holds your teeth in place.

“If nothing is done,” says Dr. Nemeth, “it’s not going to be long before those teeth are lost.”

A Real Case: Bone Loss Just Two Years After Invisalign
In the video below, Dr. Nemeth shares the case of a woman who had Invisalign two years ago. She came in concerned about minor gum recession. Upon examination, Dr. Nemeth discovered widespread bone loss, severe tooth mobility, and a real risk of tooth loss.
While her front tooth triggered her concern, recession was also present along the lower front and upper right sides. And unfortunately, this is not an isolated case.

How the Pinhole Technique Can Save At-Risk Teeth

Thankfully, there’s a way to intervene before it’s too late. Dr. Nemeth uses the Pinhole Surgical Technique—a minimally invasive method to thicken the gum tissue, cover exposed roots, and help stabilize the teeth. In more advanced cases, he may also splint teeth to keep them from shifting or falling out. The pinhole approach avoids the cutting and stitching of traditional grafting, with faster healing and long-term results.

Why Monitoring Gum Health After Orthodontics Is Critical

It’s easy to assume that once Invisalign is done, your smile is set for life. But teeth that are straightened into unnatural positions may cause lasting harm if the gums and bone aren’t equipped to support them. It’s vital to have a periodontist evaluate your gum and bone health, especially if you notice:

• Teeth appearing longer or more yellow near the gumline
• Looseness or mobility in any teeth
• Sensitivity near previously treated areas
• Receding gums (even slightly)

Watch: Dr. Nemeth on Recession and Invisalign Risks

Want to see the full story? Dr. Nemeth breaks it down in this patient-focused video:

Protect Your Smile—Even After Straightening It
If you’ve had Invisalign and now notice signs of recession or loose teeth, don’t wait. Early intervention can mean the difference between saving your natural teeth and losing them altogether. Dr. Nemeth is one of the few periodontists in the country with extensive experience using the pinhole technique to treat these exact problems.

?? Schedule your consultation at DrNemeth.com
You invested in your smile. Now it’s time to protect it.