Maxillary Lateral Incisor Extraction Gaps Reopened for Implants? (photo)

Question

I am a 19 year old male. A few years ago I had my maxillary lateral incisor peg teeth extracted and the gap closed up with braces. This was a big mistake (I was only fifteen what did I know?) and has led to issues functionally and aesthetically, particularly on my external appearance. So is it possible to reopen the extraction spaces and possibly expand my arch so I can have full sized implants where my incisors should be? I feel this would give me the fuller looking jaw and smile that I desire.

H. Ryan Kazemi, DMD · Answer

While, orthodontic treatment is possible, it will not be easy and will certainly take time. To have an implant placed, a minimum 6 mm space will be required. Which can be obtained from arch expansion and teeth movement. The Lower teeth also will need to be moved accordingly to maintain your bite.

	 

	dr. Kazemi

Leonard Tau, DMD · Answer

It IS possible to reopen the spaces and place implants, but it takes time and skill. Not all orthodontists do this, so it may take some homework on your part. It WILL be worth it in the end. Good luck

Thomas R. Froning, DDS · Answer

The best thing to do is orthodontics. It is possible to open the spaces and create the room for implants. The orthodontist will have to look at the total facial appearance. For perfection you may be looking at more than just braces. Just from the limited information my guess is once the upper teeth are in the correct position the lowers, even if they are tilted out, will not match and your facial profile will not be ideal. I would not recommend veneers. They would be too thick and veneers would not give you anywhere near the result your looking for.

Kevin Coughlin, DMD · Answer

The short answer is yes alot of time and expensive but many times worth it... If its only appearance and not function you could consider veneers on the front 8-10 teeth that would give the appearance of a fuller smile. Good Luck

	 

	 

	Kevin Coughlin DMD, MBA, MAGD     CEO Baystate Dental PC

Dan Hagi, DDS · Answer

You are absolutely correct.  It see,d that the most ideal treatment would be to expand the arches procline the upper front teeth and make space for 2 implants.  The roots of the teeth also need to move to allow for the space for implant placement.   This would reestablish function and aesthetics.  You have a deficient chin from the profile picture.  I'm not so sure this will be solved with orthodontics alone. Orthographic or jaw surgery may be needed to balance facial aesthetic.  

	 

	Hope this helps.

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD - Account Suspended · Answer

Some orthodontists and dentists are behind the times and "lateralize the canines" like your case.  I agree with you, this is a big mistake. 

	 

	It IS possible to reopen the spaces and place implants, but it takes time and skill.  Not all orthodontists do this, so it may take some homework on your part.  It WILL be worth it in the end.

Maxillary Lateral Incisor Extraction Gaps Reopened for Implants? (photo)

Answers (6)

More Dental Implants Questions

Can I Replace an Implant with a New One in a Whiter Shade?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (6)

More Dental Implants Questions

Can I Replace an Implant with a New One in a Whiter Shade?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS