Am I ready to have my braces off? (photos)

Question

I'm missing my lateral insicsors so I used to have a huge gap between my middle two teeth and my canines. At my request, I asked to have the gaps closed without removing/adding teeth. Last month my ortho asked to remove my braces, but I still feel like my teeth look awful. My canines turn inwards and theres still a gap he said he'll close. Opinions? Do my teeth look ready?

John McDonald, DMD · Answer

When teeth are missing and other teeth are substituted in their place, cosmetic dentistry is always necessary to reshape the teeth to make the substituted teeth look like the ones that were supposed to be there.  If you are interested in the absolute best result, you should visit with the cosmetic dentist BEFORE the braces are removed.  The dentist will make sure that the teeth are positioned in the best possible locations so that he make the teeth look natural.  I cannot overstate the importance of this step.  There are so many little details that separate an OK smile from a great smile you want both doctors working together to achieve the best result.  In my practice, I always send patients requiring follow on dentistry back to their dentist for a final check on tooth position before I remove the braces.  Teamwork in these cases is always important. Another note.  All dentists can perform "cosmetic dentistry" to some degree.  Some dentists are much better at it than others.  Make sure you do your homework before choosing a dentist to finalize your case.

Am I ready to have my braces off? (photos)

Answers (1)

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.

Am I ready to have my braces off? (photos)

Answers (1)

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.