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Can you have braces without having lower jaw surgery?

linysplaceNov 8, 2015
I'm 57, the orthodontist states I have an overbite and my teeth are not lining up correctly. I have at least 9 to 10 caps in my mouth. He pretty much told me prior to taking $300 worth of xrays that I will need lower jaw surgery.. and the implication was unless you agree to surgery I will not put braces on. Do the 2 go hand in hand and is it a deal breaker... what will my problems be if I wear braces for 18 months and do not have the surgery.

Answers (2)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
Dr. Frank Celenza, DDS, PC
Orthodontist
Answered on Nov 9, 2015
Answer
Dr. Ira Shapira, DDS (in memoriam)
Dentist
Answered on Nov 9, 2015
Answer

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Ira Shapira, DDS (in memoriam)

It looks like you had four bicuspids removed for your orthodontic treatment.  This is called contraction orthodontics.  A better alternative is to orthpopedically grow your jaws larger so all teeth fit into your arches without amputations.I would suggest looking into a DNA Appliance to...

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Ira Shapira, DDS (in memoriam)

I apologize for being lazy but I just copy and pasted an old answer to your post.You have narrow v-shaped arches and a very pretty face.  Extractions will probably create more problems that it solves.  Please read my previous e-mail below:MY ADVISE.....DO NOT AMPUTATE FOUR...

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Frank Celenza, DDS, PC

These look like what are known as "peg lateral incisors".  You need to consult with a good dentist, and have Xrays and a diagnosis. By the way, it is common with a peg that the other one is missing, so get a diagnosis and treatment plan that is accurate to your situation. 

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Frank Celenza, DDS, PC

Braces, or Invisalign may very well be an option for you, but there is more to it than just the overlap.  How do they relate to the bottom teeth?  You should have a thorough evaluation by an orthodontist for direction.

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Tracy Li Cheung, DDS, MS

For mild relapse cases, Invisalign Express 10 is a good option. This is an expedited Invisalign treatment that consists of 10 sets of trays. In order to evaluate the best treatment options for you, it is recommended that you have a comprehensive evaluation with an Orthodontist. 

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Tracy Li Cheung, DDS, MS

Over time, teeth tend to drift forward, giving the appearance of "crowding" or "overlapping". Orthodontic treatment followed by proper retention can likely help to improve the positioning of your teeth.  

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