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Arch Expansion Without Dental Implants?

asked 6 months ago by MillyS
Latest answer by Brian Dorfman, MD, DMD
Question viewed 359 times
Tags: arch, candidate, expansion

As a teen I had four premolars (two top, two bottom) removed before wearing braces, which worsened both my facial aesthetics and smile. After doing some research I found that it might be possible to reverse this by expanding the jaws/dental arch, without necessarily requiring dental implants to replace the missing teeth. However, I don't understand how implants can be avoided, given that the arch will be bigger (more space) which should surely require more teeth to "fill up" the space?

8 answers to Arch Expansion Without Dental Implants?

+1

Dental Implants to Fill spaces

There are several options to fill spaces left by arch expansion. The ideal procedure is based on how many spaces are present and how large the spaces are. One option is orthodontics alone. Sometimes orthodontics can be used to close spaces as long as this does not ultimately casue a problem with your bite. Spamm spaces in the anterior can be close with Veneers, this may involve shaving the teeth slightly though. There are some "No Prep" veneers available, but... more
Brian Dorfman, MD, DMD

Phoenix Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

drbdorfman.com

+1

Arch Expansion using No-Prep Veneers

Hi MillyS, While you can reopen the space using Invisalign or braces, and replace the missing tooth with an implant, there is another option for widening your smile and improving your facial aesthetics -- No-Prep Veneers. I do a lot of No-Prep Veneers/Smile Improvements on patients who had 4 premolar removed during prior orthodontic treatment. With no numbing or shaving-down of your teeth needed, you can have a brilliant smile that will broaden your smile (arch expansion) and... more
Susan Goode Estep, DMD

Atlanta Cosmetic Dentist
+1

Arch expansion and dental implants

It sounds like you have a good understanding of your condition and options. Depending on the amount of room you have an the size of your teeth, to get the best facial esthetics it is good to expand the arch (to reverse the sunken-in look). If things work out well you will have enough space when you are done to replace the four extraacted teeth with implants. I strongl suggest you consider periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodonticcs. This will give you the best... more
Lawrence Singer, DMD

Washington Cosmetic Dentist
+1

Yes space can be made with Invisalign for implants.

Using Invisalign we can move the teeth forword in a serial progression so that the teeth move forward in the jaw bone. It would add to your profile a little as well. I guess it all depends on what you want from this type of treatment and the willingness to be in treatment for a while.
Michael J. Thomas, DDS

Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist
+1

Improving smile/facial esthetics with arch expansion

Extraction of 4 premolars for braces was very common in previous years. Now a days it is less common and the reason is exacly what your complaint is about. It pushes everything back to close the spaces and your profile changes. You are correct in your observation that if you expand the arches you will create more space. The question is how much space? Can you live with small spaces behind the canine teeth? It is possible to create several small spaces which can be closed with... more
Mauricio C. Tijerino, DMD

Miami Beach Cosmetic Dentist
+1

Replacing missing teeth usually has three options

You are right, the reopening of space will leave... a SPACE. Implants are the best solution, but a dental bridge or partial denture are also options. Discuss all options and possibilities with your restoring dentist and you should be able to make the best decision for yourself.
Lance Timmerman, DMD

Seattle Cosmetic Dentist
+1

Dental arch expansion with dental implants

The case when premolars are extracted prior to orthodontic treatment happens very often. There are multiple limitations with dental arch expansion and arch expansion in some cases require surgical involvement. Implants are used in some cases when posterior teeth are absent. The best way to define future steps are to consult with the specialist.
Olga Kharevich, DMD, PhD

Miami Cosmetic Dentist

www.cosmeticreconstructivedentistry.com

+1

Arch expansion to deal with narrow smile.

It sounds like the removal of the four premolars left you with a narrow constricted arch which means you have a narrow smile. If this is the case then expansion or moving the teeth outwards towards the cheeks may help in giving you a more proportioned smile. Pure expansion does not create spaces between your teeth and therefore no implants or replacement of teeth is required. You need to check with your doctor to make sure the conditions are right to preform this expansion... more
Dan Hagi, DDS

Toronto Cosmetic Dentist

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