Replacement Solutions
Missing Teeth
Missing teeth are most often the result of genetics and referred to as being 'congenitally' missing. Some cases of missing teeth can be due to trauma, extractions, and other dental issues. Whatever the reason your are missing teeth, orthodontic treatment is the first step in correcting the problem.
Treatment for missing teeth starts with orthodontic treatment, including braces and sometimes exposures, implants, extractions, or other multi disciplinary efforts are combined to reach the optimal outcome.
Missing teeth is an extremely common dental problem. While there are many reasons an adult tooth is missing including, genetics, trauma and mutations. Dr. Spokane and Dr. Karski are specially trained to thoroughly evaluate the situation and determine the best course of treatment along with your dentist.
Replacing Teeth
Braces are often used in combination with dental implants, crowns, and other replacement solutions to achieve healthy occlusion and a pleasing smile. Orthodontics creates the proper spacing and creates the ideal situation for the replacement tooth.
In most cases, a multi disciplinary approach between your dentist, an orthodontist, and sometimes an oral surgeon or periodontist is required to correct the problem and provide a long term solution. An orthodontist will take a special x-ray and evaluate the reason the teeth are missing and determine the appropriate course of action with your dentist.
Are Implants Necessary?
In some cases, like missing premolars or lower incisors, no. Some malocclusions can be treated through extractions and orthodontics without replacing the missing teeth. In other cases, such as those involving missing lateral incisors and front teeth, implants are the most permanent solution. However other options are available for replacement teeth. The patient needs to be thoroughly diagnosed before treatment and objectives can be developed.
When Should I See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends having an evaluation by age 7 to take advantage of early treatment solutions like space maintainers to avoid crowding or misalignment of permanent teeth. Most baby teeth are lost between the ages of 5-15. Some options to correct the problem may not be immediately available but planning treatment is best done at a young age.
Think you might be missing teeth? We would be happy give you a free consultation including the x-rays and everything needed to determine the treatment that is right for you. We will also send our records and treatment to your dentist and build a team to meet your needs, all at no charge!
