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.

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · 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.

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

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

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

Answers (6)

Answer: Can I reopen space of missing peg shaped laterals?

Answer: Can I reopen space of missing peg shaped laterals?

Answer: Opening arch and lateral incisor replacement

Answer: Opening arch and lateral incisor replacement

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

Answers (6)

Answer: Can I reopen space of missing peg shaped laterals?

Answer: Can I reopen space of missing peg shaped laterals?

Answer: Opening arch and lateral incisor replacement

Answer: Opening arch and lateral incisor replacement

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.