Are There Cases Where Braces Are Not an Option?

Question

I am 32 and practice good oral hygiene, but have terrible teeth anyway! If they are too far gone for braces, do I have other options, or is there a chance that I will just never have straight, white teeth? PS - dentures are NOT an option!

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

Braces depend on adequate healthy tooth structure to bond brackets.  If teeth are not healthy enough for this, then crown/veneer treatment is likely needed to prevent tooth loss.  If they are not healthy enough for THAT, then extractions likely are needed.  This would likely result in dentures or implant supported crowns and bridgework.

	Without complete diagnostic records it is impossible to say what would be best for you or even possible.  Many have been shocked at what COULD be done for them and the amazing results at the end, so possibilities are varied.

Kent Lauson, DDS, MS · Answer

First of all, I am glad you said "Dentures are not an option".  Your question is difficult to answer without actually seeing you to evaluate your teeth.  Having said that, I can't imagine that something couldn't be worked out to straighten your teeth.  It may require minimizing the time in braces by using removable "Dentofacial Orthopedic" treatment appliances prior to braces.  These removable appliances, originally developed in Europe, can create new bone structure prior to braces.  This shortens the time in braces by as much as 50% and eliminates the need for removal of permanent teeth.  Look at my before and after cases to see more of what Dentofacial Orthopedics can do.  An evaluation and 2nd opinion could provide the answer.

Doug Depew, DMD, MS - Account Suspended · Answer

It is amazing what can be accomplished in dentistry these days. Without a careful evaluation by a number of specialists, you will not know what can be accomplished.  Many dentists work with a team of doctors in order to conduct multi-discipinary treatment.  It may involve any of the following: an orthodonist, endodontist, oral surgeon, periodontist, or even a prosthodontist.  But the place to start is with your dentist.  They can lead in the right direction.  They will often have you seek other speciality consultations before deciding to remove or repair any teeth.  Once your teeth are in a healthy condition and it is determined which ones are healthy enough to keep, THEN orthodontic treatment can be initiated if it is deemed necessary to acheive the overall desired result.

Are There Cases Where Braces Are Not an Option?

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Are There Cases Where Braces Are Not an Option?

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