Missing teeth can pose an issue with chewing and even with bite alignment. However, you might question whether or not you can get braces with missing teeth. In short, the answer is “yes,” and we’ll explore the reasons why and some options.
How Braces Work with Missing Teeth
In some situations, impacted wisdom teeth prevent the others from having enough space, which contributes to overcrowding. In this scenario, you would need to have all or some of your wisdom teeth removed.
On the other hand, if you already have a gap (or a few), you might have to look at other procedures before you get the brackets attached, such as getting spacers to fill in the gaps.
Likewise, an orthodontist can work around the gaps (depending on size and location) and even get your teeth realigned to where the gaps are narrowed or closed.
Or if you’re also working with a restorative dentist, you can share that information with your orthodontist to where the alignment allows for the placement of tooth implants after the braces are removed.
Another option is the use of a riding pontics, which serves as a temporary replacement for missing teeth that are more visible. A pontic is a prosthetic tooth that’s made from acrylic material and ideally matches the teeth next to it.
Just like the rest of your teeth, an orthodontist would attach a bracket and either use a ligature wire or an elastic to join it to the archwire. From there, the braces would be tightened during your follow-up appointments so that the right amount of pressure is applied to straighten your teeth.
Also Read: Do Braces Hurt?
How Space Maintainers Work with Braces
Also, orthodontists can use a space maintainer to fill the gap prior to attaching the braces. This small device prevents the neighboring teeth from shifting too far during the realignment process and is often a temporary fix for the gap.
This appliance differs from the pontic mentioned above because the gap is still visible with a space maintainer, whereas the pontic literally fills it.
Can Children Get Braces with a Missing Tooth
As we’ve mentioned, children are sometimes good candidates for braces even when their entire set of permanent teeth haven’t come in. Depending on the condition of the wisdom teeth, they might need to be removed prior to having braces attached.
Or some situations call for the removal of baby teeth to make room for proper alignment. Regardless, “early interceptive braces” have become quite common to prevent future orthodontic issues, and the time span tends to be shorter than that of teens and adults.
Do Braces Work for Adults with Missing Teeth
By using the appliances mentioned above, like pontics or space maintainers, braces can work effectively on adults who are missing teeth.
However, if you’re looking at the possibility of implants or bridges, this type of treatment needs to wait until after the braces come off. Since implants are attached directly to the jawbone, their screws won’t (or at least shouldn’t) move in the same manner as the roots of an actual tooth.
Thus, already having implants may present the ideal situation for treatment with braces.
Best Types of Braces with Missing Teeth
The traditional braces with a missing tooth tend to work effectively, particularly with the use of riding pontics or space maintainers.
In a few cases, however, you might be able to use plastic aligners in conjunction with pontics, depending on the severity of your orthodontic issues. Basically, the tray would be fashioned to fit your teeth with the pontic put in place.
Also Read: A Complete Guide To Different Types of Braces For Teeth
When You Might Avoid Braces with Missing Teeth
Nonetheless, you might run into a situation where braces with missing teeth are not an option, or where a different route of treatment is needed. Here are a few instances:
- Osteoporosis (there’s inadequate bone density in the jaw)
- Diabetes that’s out of control
- Severe gum disease
- Tooth decay
- A history of root resorption
- Too many missing teeth
Also, pregnancy might prevent you from getting this type of treatment–for the time being. It’s always best to check with your OB and your orthodontist to determine any risk.
Also Read: How To Brush Your Teeth with Braces
Conclusion
And of course, the best way to get answers about braces with a missing tooth is by contacting a board-certified orthodontist. At Ziehmer Orthodontics, we provide thorough exams and an accurate diagnosis. By obtaining state-of-the-art imaging and a complete evaluation, we can customize the most effective treatment plan for you.
