Hi Mark. I’m Unsure Whether I Should Have My Canine Removed Before Orthodontic Treatment. My Dentist Said This Would Make My Smile Symmetrical. What Do You Think?
Q.
Hi Mark. I’m having invisible fixed braces fitted soon and because I had a canine removed years ago (it had grown above the gum and the other teeth are joined) my dentist recommends removing the other canine to make it look symmetrical. He told me I’d have an extra tooth if he didn’t do this. I’m not sure about getting teeth removed. Would you recommend this procedure as I can go with another treatment he offered that doesn’t involve removing teeth? I really don’t know what to do. Any advice on this would be great.
Hi Mark. I’m having invisible fixed braces fitted soon and because I had a canine removed years ago (it had grown above the gum and the other teeth are joined) my dentist recommends removing the other canine to make it look symmetrical. He told me I’d have an extra tooth if he didn’t do this. I’m not sure about getting teeth removed. Would you recommend this procedure as I can go with another treatment he offered that doesn’t involve removing teeth? I really don’t know what to do. Any advice on this would be great.
A.
Hi. It may be wiser to keep the canine and move your other teeth to make a space for the missing canine on the other side and then replace this tooth with an implant or bridge. This is obviously a more complex treatment plan and more costly but it may be the best result both aesthetically and functionally – I’d ask a second opinion an speak to an experienced cosmetic dentist or restorative dental specialist (as well as a different orthodontist) before committing. You can ask to see cases similarly done to know if the dentist(s) or team of dentists have enough experience treating similar cases. Kind regards, Mark.
Hi. It may be wiser to keep the canine and move your other teeth to make a space for the missing canine on the other side and then replace this tooth with an implant or bridge. This is obviously a more complex treatment plan and more costly but it may be the best result both aesthetically and functionally – I’d ask a second opinion an speak to an experienced cosmetic dentist or restorative dental specialist (as well as a different orthodontist) before committing. You can ask to see cases similarly done to know if the dentist(s) or team of dentists have enough experience treating similar cases. Kind regards, Mark.
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