Closing Gap from Teeth Extraction with Invisalign?

Question

I have two baby teeth that never fell out and when I was a child. The dental office wouldn't pull them so im stuck with these "extra" teeth that are crowding my mouth. My front teeth slightly overlap. I was wondering, if my extra teeth are extracted and I use Invisalign will the gaps close?

Bobby Virk, DMD, MSD · Answer

Before I can specifically answer your question I would need more info. Where are these baby teeth. 
The invisalign treatment can close the gaps like any other orthodontic appliance. Extracting baby teeth for creating the space to resolve crowding is a very viable option.

Daniel W. Schiavone, DDS · Answer

Invisalign isn't the best choice form closing a large space left behind when a tooth is extracted.  Invisalign tends to tip teeth rather than move them bodily. Are you sure these spaces should be closed up? Maybe the "baby teeth" should be replaced with implants? It depends on the space available in that arch of teeth. Consult with an orthodontist or experienced general dentist for the answers.

Susan Goode Estep, DMD · Answer

I have many patients in your same situation. Here is how I treat their cases, and what I believe to be likely the very best treatment for you. Leave the baby teeth in your mouth for as long as possible. With the baby teeth in place, use Invisalign to straighten your teeth (correct crowding, improve your smile, etc.). Down the road -- if and when your baby teeth come out -- restore them with single-tooth implants. As long as the baby teeth are not an aesthetic concern for you, keep them for a while. 
Here's why:  Implant technology is improving by leaps and bounds right now. Implants are by far the best option for replacing missing teeth and the technology will only get better over the next few years.
If you just close the gaps, you will likely change your bite to a less healthy alignment.  Also, your front teeth will be pulled back to close the spaces which will decrease your lip fullness thereby changing your appearance.

Closing Gap from Teeth Extraction with Invisalign?

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Closing Gap from Teeth Extraction with Invisalign?

Answers (3)

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