Is there a way to move my teeth forward/out without giving me an overbite or mess up the function/form? (Photo)

Question

I had braces done with first bicuspid extractions. Now my top teeth slant inward and my face isn't "full" which will only get worse as I age. I really don't like my smile anymore. Is there a way to move my teeth forward/out without giving me an overbite or mess up the function/form? I basically want my bicuspids back. Would putting in spacers and gradually making way for implants work? This may not be the best picture, but hopefully it shows the slant inward.

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

The best choice is Epigenetic Orthodontics utilizing the DNA Appliance.  It will actually make you more physiologically correct.  (dnaappliance.com)It is unfortunate that 4 on the floor orthodontics is still done.Research in airway and sleep medicine should have eliminated that method of treatment many years ago.I frequently see TMJ Disorders, Snoring and Sleep Apnea in patients whose airways were reduced with extraction orthodontics.Ira L Shapira DDS, D,AAPM, D,ABDSM, FICCMOChair, Alliance of TMD DisorganizationsDelanyDentalCare.comThinkBetterLife.com

Brad Lockhart, DDS · Answer

You can have your bicuspids back. The way to move your front teeth back to where they belong is to develop your dental arches (DNA is a great appliance to do this). Sometimes implants are used to replace the missing bicuspids, sometimes it only requires filling in spaces with cosmetic procedures. You are completely justified in being concerned about your overly retracted teeth and what that does to your smile, your lip support and your facial aesthetics but you also need to be concerned about the possible deleterious effects on your TMJ and airway (two potentially serious medical issues). Good luck!

Frank Celenza, DDS, PC · Answer

Can't really tell much from the photo but I understand your concern.  More information is needed to arrive at a suitable treatment plan, and if you are really disatisfied then I would strongly suggest that you consult with a good orthodontist in your area for a thorough evaluation.  I have done many cases of replacing the extracted premolars, but it's not a simple thing to set up and just putting spacers in would be a disaster.  Opening the space for eventual (implant) replacement requires that the neighboring teeth be guided very precisely so that they remain parallel.  This is time consuming, but likely feasible.  Gather information and make a decision if it's worth it to you. best of luck.

Is there a way to move my teeth forward/out without giving me an overbite or mess up the function/form? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Is there a way to move my teeth forward/out without giving me an overbite or mess up the function/form? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Braces

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