Avoid implants with Invisalign while missing 2 lateral incisors? (Photo)

Question

I'm trying to avoid implants and bridges. Is this possible? I've seen online that dentists shape the canines to match the missing later incisors. But where does the gaps go?

Doug Jopling, DDS · Answer

You also have a gap between your two front teeth 8 and 9. It would be best to use Invisalign to close the gap between 8 and 9 which will make the Lateral incisor spaces between 6 and 7 and also 9 and 11 larger allowing narrow implants more possibility for success. Bridges are destructive requiring teeth 6,8,9 and 11 to be drilled down significantly. Implants will not require any tooth structure to be removed.  A possible option after orthodontic movement may be to do conservative bonded Maryland style bridges to place prosthetic teeth in the missing lateral incisor areas.

Joseph H. Hidalgo, DDS · Answer

Trist, I am sorry to tell you but moving canines in the lateral position never really solves a smile problem. It can close spaces in the front teeth but the spaces will be moved further back. I believe that implants in the lateral position is the best way to achieve a great smile. You can also combine invisalign with the implants and achieve a fantastic smile that will benefit you the rest of your life.

Vicki Borowski, DDS · Answer

You are not an ideal candidate to move your canines into the lateral position. It would be better to move both your canines and central incisors into their ideal position and have implants or bridges made.

Avoid implants with Invisalign while missing 2 lateral incisors? (Photo)

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Avoid implants with Invisalign while missing 2 lateral incisors? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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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.