Spoiler Alert: In most cases, yes you can still get braces with missing teeth!
Braces may be recommended for a patient with missing teeth for any number of reasons. At your complimentary exam, one of our experienced orthodontists will perform a full exam of your smile to help you determine the best treatment route moving forward.
Orthodontic treatment with us at Saxe Orthodontics is truly personalized, your treatment plan will be 100% customized to you and your smile. If you have missing teeth and need orthodontics, we can develop a plan to help you achieve your goals.
In the meantime, here’s everything you need to know about getting braces with missing teeth:
What causes missing teeth?
The most common causes of missing teeth include:
- Traumatic injury
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Oral cancer
- Congenital condition (condition present at birth)
The American College of Prosthodontists estimates that 120 million U.S. Americans are missing at least one tooth!
Why would I need braces with missing teeth?
If you have missing teeth, you may or may not need orthodontic treatment. It all depends on the positions of your teeth and alignment of your jaw bones.
In many cases with missing teeth, the surrounding teeth will start to drift to fill the spaces. As teeth drift, this can create new orthodontic problems, including crowding and malocclusions (bite misalignment). Missing teeth can actually create orthodontic problems at any stage of life.
Orthodontic problems can affect your quality of life, including your confidence and self-esteem, chewing and bite functionality, and even your sleep quality.
Braces with Missing Teeth
Braces may be used while teeth are missing! In some cases, the patient may require a space maintainer to preserve the space created by a missing tooth or teeth. Space maintainers prevent teeth from drifting over and creating a more severe misalignment.
If the missing tooth needs to be replaced, we can use a space maintainer to hold space for the restoration as well. If your case requires a space maintainer, your orthodontist will explain the process to you!
Braces can then be placed on teeth to close any gaps, hold certain gaps open or create more space in the mouth.
Can I get braces with missing molars?
Yes, in many cases, patients can still get braces with missing molars. Depending on your specific case, we may recommend braces or clear aligners (such as Invisalign® or Spark™), along with an appliance. Either way, we will guide you toward a solution that helps you love your smile.
Request your complimentary exam today!
The best way to determine whether you’re a good candidate for orthodontic treatment is by visiting us for a complimentary consultation. Dr. Saxe will perform a full examination of your smile and present your treatment options to help you make the best decision for your smile.
If you’re looking for a top orthodontist in Las Vegas, we’d love to meet you! Request a complimentary exam for you or your child today.
