Braces for the third time and overbite? Is extraction really necessary? (Photos)

Question

I am 23 years old who just got braces for the third time (only for the upper teeth). I did wear retainers for nearly 3 years once the first relapse was fixed. However, my teeth still relapsed! My current doctor feels that I always needed braces for both my upper and lower jaw to correct since I have an overbite... The current doctor also says that we should extract at least 2 teeth from my upper jaw to fix the bite. Are the extractions really necessary in my case? PFA model attached.

Chi H. Bui, DMD, MS · Answer

You definitely need to see a board-certified orthodontist to  ensure that your treatment is done correctly, once and for all. You can be treated without removing teeth, but full treatment (both arches) is needed to correct the bite. Whether you choose to be treated with braces or Invisalign is up to you and your orthodontist. Retainer wear is critical to maintaining the results, no matter how many times you have had orthodontic treatment. There are many options for retainers, which should be discussed with your orthodontist as well. Good luck!

A Vandiveer Strait, DDS (Retired)- Acct. Suspended · Answer

All I can say is that in our office we have been doing Orthodontics for over 30 years and the past 20 years exclusively Invisalign Orthodontics with NO EXTRACTIONS!Removing teeth creates all kinds of issues and may adversely effect the profile of your face.   I have treated over 1200 patients many with overbites sucessufully.   As a general dentist I would not only evaluate your bite and tooth position from an orthodontic perspective, but also the periodontal health and cosmetic aspects of what is needed. There are a number of techniques that can be used to correct your relapsed previous orthodontics using Invisallign.  Additionally I would recommend Invisalign's Vivera retention system; we have found it to be comfortable, easy for the patient, and very effective at preventing relapse. I would recommend getting a second opinion from a good General dentist who is very experienced with Invisalign.

Braces for the third time and overbite? Is extraction really necessary? (Photos)

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Braces

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Braces for the third time and overbite? Is extraction really necessary? (Photos)

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Braces

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.