What Are My Options for Replacing Missing Lateral Incisors?

Without pictures it's hard to say.  Without pictures, I'm going to go with two 3-unit bridges (6-X-8 and 9-x-11).  I've treated many missing lateral teeth cosmetic cases.  These 3-unit bridges really does wonders.  Post pictures then we can chime back in again with more definitive recommendations.

Oftentimes the best and most predictable treatment for congenitally missing lateral incisors is dental implants.  However, in many cases there is not enough room or enough bone to treat.  In those cases, or in cases where the patient will not do implants, or doesn't have enough time to do implants (treatments can take 6 months or longer), then lingual bonded brdges or fix all porcelain bridges might be the treatment of choice.Since you don't like the shape of your existing teeth, then doing an all-ceramic fixed bridge (rather than a lingual bonded bridge) would seem to be the treatment of choice.  Today, cosmetic dentists have an amazing porcelain that can be used for the bridge called Emax which is absolutely perfect for situations such as you describe and replacing missing lateral incisors.  It is strong, esthetic and long lasting.The of course, you could also do the implants and porcelain veneers on your other teeth.

Make sure you have enough room at the roots for 2 implants

Assuming you don't, invisalign will be great for several reasons.  It can expand your arch making room for wider canines and centrals (with veneers or boding at a later date).  You ca bleach while you are in treatment.  Invisalign can take awhile, so you can space out your financial concerns.  You can have 2 "dummy" teeth placed in your aligners to fill the gap during the process.

Once you have created the space, it is important to hold it with either an aligner/retainer or a "flipper" which is like a mini partial denture with 2 dummy teeth on it.

Even with only seven months left, I suggest meeting with your Dentist and seeing if this can work.


A cautionary tale:  A good friend went ahead and placed 6 crowns in a similar situation (this was before we met).  Flash forward 11 years and she deeply regrets her now irreversible decision.  Always good dental advice:  seek the least invasive treatment that will achieve your goals.

Good luck and Congratulations on your upcoming wedding.