Concerned about teeth extraction in order to fix top teeth overjet and bottom teeth crowding. Is this common procedure? (photo)

Question

I had a very thorough orthodontic consultation where I was told I could get invisalign to make my teeth straight but if I wanted to correct my overjet, I would have to get 2 top premolars extracted. I am very nervous to remove 2 teeth in the hopes of my teeth becoming straight. Is this a common procedure? How long will I have large spaces where my premolars are missing once I start wearing the trays? And I have read elsewhere that extraction can change the look of your face, how is this so?

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

I would be very leary of having the extractions and it could lead to sleep apnea or snoring problems in the future.  It is possible to widen the maxilla in an adult by utilizing Epigenetic Orthodontics (DNA Appliance) to grow the maxillary bone and then finish the case with Invisalign if needed.In this manner you orthopedically enlarge the bone and  (pneumopedically)   enlarge the airway.

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

Thanks for providing a photo, it makes your case easier to diagnose.  Yes, it is very common to remove 1 or 2 teeth prior to Invisalign treatment or metal braces.  This creates spaces that make it easy for your other teeth to move into.  Invisalign is great at closing spaces and reducing crowding. An alternative to extracting teeth is IPR (inter-proximal reduction).  This is when neighboring teeth are shaved to create more space.  I would not recommend IPR for your case, based on your photo.Spaces left by the removed teeth may remain for up to 6 months.Good luck to you and I hope this helps.  "Follow" me on Real Self to ask more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMD St. Louis, MO

Michael Tam, BDS · Answer

Removing a set of
premolars is very common practice in orthodontic patients that do not have
enough room in their arch to move teeth back into the position that is needed.
The teeth need somewhere to go when they are being moved, and sometimes the
arch can be too small, so the premolars are removed. This affects your facial
profile as the way your lips lay against your face, and how the outline will be
before and after treatment. The spacing is closed by the time your orthodontic
treatment is completed.

Frank Celenza, DDS, PC · Answer

from the look of your two photos, which are not nearly diagnostic, but anyway, I'd say that's about the stupidest thing you could do.   I wouldn't do it unless there's some good reason that I'm missing here. did an orthodontist tell you that?

Concerned about teeth extraction in order to fix top teeth overjet and bottom teeth crowding. Is this common procedure? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Overjet

Answer: Overjet

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Concerned about teeth extraction in order to fix top teeth overjet and bottom teeth crowding. Is this common procedure? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Overjet

Answer: Overjet

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Everything you need to know about Invisalign

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.