Can I get braces to close gaps where I had teeth pulled 3 years ago?

Question

I have had 3 teeth removed due to cavities and a root canal one on top and 2 on bottom... all of them were my 2nd premolars (bicuspids) so on one side it's even with no tooth and makes it hard to eat... and when I smile you can see that I have missing teeth. Can I get braces to pull the back teeth forward so it closes the gaps where the teeth were pulled?

Deepak Gupta, DMD, MS · Answer

You can absolutely get braces after having teeth missing for a prolonged period of time.  We have patients that have been missing teeth for over 30 years and we close the spaces using braces.  However, depending on your bite and facial profile the orthodontist may suggest that you replace the missing teeth with dental implants instead of closing the spaces.  That is a conversation you and your orthodontist should have since he/she will be able to see your bite and facial profile.

Robert Waxler, DMD, MS · Answer

First things first...are you seeing a dentist and making sure that you do not have any more decayed and missing teeth....all the ortho in the world will not help you with infected and decayed teeth and gums!When your mouth is healthy see an orthodontistMany times spaces can be closed...it all depends...

Can I get braces to close gaps where I had teeth pulled 3 years ago?

Answers (2)