I will be extracting my first molar. Braces or implant to close gap?

Question

I will be extracting my first molar due to a failed root canal. The option given to me was to get braces or an implant to close the gap. I want to get braces because it's "natural", but my wisdom tooth is impacted. Can it be uprighted with braces? What are the pros and cons of of both braces and implant? Thank you in advance!

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

Using braces to upright and move forward an impacted wisdom tooth is pretty difficult to do and may lead to unpredictable results.  The more predictable option would be placing an implant in this space OR placing a 3-unit bridge.  A three unit bridge may give you greater functionality, but will be harder to clean properly.  The implant would be less durable in this area, but would be easier to clean.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMD

Gurs Sehmi, BDS · Answer

Hi, I have used braces to close gaps left by molars, using braces. I hardly ever use full braces for this, so you could have a brace to move the second molar forward, and this might help the molar tooth to come out. I agree that its less predictable, and will take some time, however teeth do move quickly if they are moving into a freshly extracted site. To give you an idea, braces will take about 1mm per month, so it might take 12+ months to finish your treatment. If your'e looking to move the wisdom tooth, then it will take longer. Implants will be quicker, and more people will be experienced to do this. Those two unerupted lower teeth look interesting too! Gurs

Brian Dorfman, MD, DMD · Answer

Placement of a dental implant for a missing molar is a more predictable solution.  Closing the space with orthodontics is more labor intensive, less predictable (based on age) and less cost effective.  The fact that you have an impacted wisdom tooth also makes the situation much less predictable.  Although orthodontics is an option, it is a very poor one.

Gregory Bowen, DDS · Answer

To close a gap left after the extraction of your first molar is done with an implant. Movement of the second molar into the position of the first molar is impractical.

I will be extracting my first molar. Braces or implant to close gap?

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