My 17-year-old was born with a missing lateral incisor. Our pediatric dentist said that the canine tooth would eventually fill the space. The dentist was right, but my son’s smile looks weird. He is self-conscious about his smile, and I understand why. We saw another dentist yesterday who recommended braces and a dental implant. Does that make sense or will dental bonding work? – Thanks. Lydia from AL
Lydia,
Repositioning the canine tooth to its proper place, followed by placing a dental implant for the missing tooth, is recommended for a missing incisor. The canine tooth, its substantial size, and long root are designed to absorb sideways chewing forces to protect the back teeth. Allowing this tooth to remain displaced can lead to costly dental problems.
A dental implant is the healthies and most natural-looking way to replace a dental implant.
The canine’s natural bulk and shape make it very difficult to create a normal-looking smile when it substitutes for a lateral incisor, which is a much thinner and more delicate tooth. Attempting to reshape the canine requires excessive tooth reduction, potentially damaging the tooth. Dental bonding or a porcelain veneer is usually inadequate for altering the bulk of the canine. This aesthetic challenge is magnified when the lateral incisor is missing on only one side because the imbalance is more noticeable.
How Do Braces Help with a Missing Incisor?
Correct tooth positioning may require braces to create space for replacing a missing lateral incisor. A healthy smile is important for a teenager’s social development and confidence. Consult a cosmetic dentist with implant dentistry training to discuss your son’s options and the estimated cost.
Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge cosmetic dentist and a Fellow of implant dentistry, sponsors this post.
