Is extraction preferred over shaving in my case? I'm a 55 year old male... (photos)

Hello there,Most orthodontists today no longer need to remove teeth.  In some cases of extreme crowding, extractions are still recommended. I would recommend that go for a couple of consultations and get several opinions before making a decision.  Be sure to look and before and after photos when selecting your dentist.  This will give you the best indication of how your teeth will look.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMDSt. Louis, MO area (O'Fallon, IL)Real Self 100

Hello Chasing Time,When an orthodontist is to make this decision, crowding is only one factor to consider. Other factors are the shape of the teeth, the bite and the surrounding bone. In situations where there is consideration of removing a lower tooth, it is optimal to simulate this option to assess the final bite after alignment. With digital tooth moving tools like Invisalign, your orthodontist can simulate different treatment plans (removal vs. Shaving) and select the most optimal one.Hope that helps,Dr. Vendittelli

I would never have extraction done for myself but would expand with the DNA Appliance.  That said, at 55 years old you will have fast results with an extraction.  Too much space needed to start shaving teeth.  Ira L Shapira DDS, D,ABDSM, D,AAPM, FICCMOChair, Alliance of TMD OrganizationsDiplomat, American Academy of Pain ManagementDiplomat, American Board of Dental Sleep MedicineRegent & Fellow, International College of CranioMandibular OrthopedicsBoard Eligible, American Academy of CranioFacial PainDental Section Editor, Sleep & Health JournalMember, American Equilibration SocietyMember, Academy of Applied Myofunctional Sciences