What are my options for correcting a gap in my front teeth, as well as an open bite related to tongue thrust? (Photo)

Question

I had braces as a teenager, but despite using a retainer, my gap returned. My bite has never met in the front, but it wasn't until I changed dentists as an adult that the issue was addressed. My new dentist said that my braces were a waste of money and that the tongue thrust should have been corrected before braces were applied. I would like to correct it because it causes a lisp and difficulties eating (biting through), but I don't think I'm up for traditional braces again. What are my options?

Oleg Drut, DDS · Answer

Absolutely no to veneers!  Your teeth are of a good size and placing the veneers to close the gap will result in loss of enamel and abnormally large front teeth. In addition, if the habit does not stop, the gap will reappear with age. There are many methods to stop the habit. My recommendation is to visit an orthodontic office and to be very conservative as possible. Get braces or invisalign, close the space, close the bite, get permanent retainers on the upper and lower front teeth so this will not occur again. Keep your teeth healthy and natural without any unnecessary dental work.

Tom Hedge, DDS · Answer

I believe your dentist is correct in the fact that braces would relapse.  Your body has put the teeth where they want it to be.  Veneers in the current position would close the gaps.

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