Can my canted smile be improved by getting dental implants behind the existing molars? (Photo)

Question

About 10 years ago, I had a premolar removed from my upper arch in preparation for orthodontic treatment (canine slightly overlapped premolar). I had my wisdom teeth removed as a teenager. After two orthodontic treatments, I have been stranded with an unflattering canted smile since this tooth removal. Is there any way to get a dental implant behind existing molars to shore up the bone, and hopefully improve the tilt over time?

Miller Vieira Paula, DDS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your story and concerns regarding your smile. Based on what you've described and the photo you provided, here are some thoughts:
It may be possible to explore dental implant options to restore the balance in your upper arch, especially in the area where the premolar was removed. However, an implant behind existing molars may not be the typical solution to address smile canting. Smile cants are often corrected through orthodontics or prosthodontics to balance the bite and alignment.
In terms of bone loss in the area of the missing premolar, a dental implant could help preserve bone structure and prevent further resorption. But for adjusting the tilt of your smile, other treatments might be necessary, such as:
• Orthodontic re-evaluation – Using braces or aligners to correct the cant and ensure proper bite alignment.• Restorative dentistry – Depending on the alignment and spacing of your teeth, options such as veneers or crowns may help adjust the aesthetic of your smile.• Surgical options – In severe cases, some patients might require minor oral surgery to realign the jaw or address more complex imbalances.
It’s best to schedule a consultation with both an implant specialist and an orthodontist. A comprehensive examination, including X-rays or a 3D scan, can help determine whether a dental implant, additional orthodontic treatment, or a combination of both is the best course of action to improve the tilt of your smile and restore harmony.

Baran Bardakci, DDS · Answer

Invisalign would make a difference, because it starts with a digital impression and digital planning. Everything is more predictable in your case.

Can my canted smile be improved by getting dental implants behind the existing molars? (Photo)

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

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

Can my canted smile be improved by getting dental implants behind the existing molars? (Photo)

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

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