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How Can I Move One Tooth into Position?

How can I move one tooth into position (canine)? I am halfway through Invisalign and because my one tooth wouldn't move, all my top aligners now don't fit well. My orthodontist wants me to continue with Invisalign(41 weeks) or wear full braces (4-6 months). I don't care if my teeth aren't perfectly straight, I just want my canine tooth to move approx 3mm in(space already created) but make sure the other teeth don't move. I want something quick and virtually invisible. BTW I live in Australia.

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6 Doctor Answers | Asked by 6517anon in Australia

Doctor Answers (6)
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Canine Movement With Invisalign

Invisalign is a great product that is very technique sensitive and does have its limitations. Canines are the largest rooted teeth in the mouth and therefore, the most difficult to move. I would continue with the Invisalign and see what happens. Don't be surprised if it is still not moved into the exact position that you would like. At that point you could place a veneer on that canine to correct it completely. I noticed that your canine has a long, pointed... more

Don't get discouraged

Teeth move over time when force is applied to them. In order to put force on your canine tooth, the other teeth have to act as anchors. They resist the force that is going in the opposite direction to your canine. Because the canine is such a strong tooth, you need to use your other teeth as anchors to be sure that the force moves the canine. You mentioned that you want the solution to be "virtually invisible". Invisalign is the best... more

Moving a canine can take longer

Since the canine has such a long root, it can take more time to move it into place. You mentioned that you want it to move 3mm. There is not a QUICK way to do that, and sometimes you can't do everything with Invisalign. Your orthodontist probably has a lot of experience with cases just like yours and wants to recommend the treatment that will get the best results. You'll just have to weight the options your orthodonitst gives you, and decide based on what is... more

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Moving a canine can be tough. Hang in there!

It sounds like your orthodontist is right to me. The braces may be able to rotate it faster. Hang in there with it, either way. You obviously wanted it straight or you wouldn't have started it. Sometimes things are tougher than we think they will be. Just keep remembering that you'll be so happy when it's right. Best wishes!

Moving a canine may be slow

Invisalign is great - and can result in wonderful results in most cases. In your case, a single canine not moving (fast enough), is a common problem for clear aligner therapy. The problem is one of speed - which isn't a fast as you would like. Canines have very large roots, which require a bit more force and time. Regular braces will move the canine faster. This decision is a difficult one for you. I would discuss, again, with your treating dentist your... more

Trust Your Orthodontist and Wear Conventional Braces

Invisalign can not always rotate teeth. Wear the conventional braces and let them turn that tooth into position. I know its only one tooth but the canine is an important tooth in your mouth (it is a cornerstone of your smile) and it has a long root. Moving a tooth fast(and in health) and without showing is not an easy job. I promise the time will go quickly to realign your eye tooth if you do the conventional braces. Good luck.

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Smile Makeover: Q&A