Typically, orthodontists and especially Dr Wexler does not recommend extractions unless it's the best possible choice. There are a few other techniques that can help make room in the mouth without needing to remove teeth. The most common is called palate widening and dental arch lengthening.
Yes, it is very safe to extract teeth for braces. Orthodontists are trained and experienced in treating complex cases requiring teeth extractions. They will authorize the removal of only those teeth that absolutely necessary for achieving a healthy, beautiful smile and a correct bite.
Orthodontists aim at pulling the least number of teeth, usually one to four, to meet orthodontic treatment goals. Extraction of an odd number of teeth is not uncommon. A doctor may find it necessary to pull only one or three teeth to fit the objectives of the treatment.
If you or your child has a wisdom tooth extraction, the general rule is to wait at least two weeks before getting braces. We want your gums to heal fully before beginning treatment. However, even after two weeks, some people may still have some soreness and swelling.
Crowding occurs when the size of the jaw is too small for the teeth coming in. With not enough space, some teeth could erupt out of their proper positions. Removing certain teeth frees up space to eventually allow braces or other orthodontic devices to re-align the teeth.
Oral health can be complex, so you may have multiple issues with the teeth in your mouth that, taken together, make extracting all of your teeth the best way to improve your oral and overall health.
Post-surgical risks
Tooth extraction is associated with several general post-surgical effects such as pain, inflammation, bruising, bleeding, and infection. Some pain, swelling, and bruising in the area can be expected for most patients, which will subside with time.
Typically, orthodontists recommend having teeth extracted as a last resort and only after thoroughly weighing the pros and cons of such an approach. Although having teeth extracted is a more direct approach to teeth straightening and offers results faster, you should also consider the alternatives.
A tooth extraction for braces is also helpful when premature or “baby” teeth are still in the mouth. Instead of waiting until the teeth fall out on their own, an extraction can speed up the process.
There is no limit to the number of teeth you can have extracted at once. While having multiple teeth extracted during the same procedure is rare, it is sometimes the only option for patients with severe tooth decay.
The teeth most frequently removed for orthodontic reasons are the first bicuspid (premolar) teeth. These are the teeth right between the cuspid or eyeteeth (under the eyes) and the molar teeth (the biggest back teeth). In some cases premolar teeth can be removed without sacrificing future cosmetics or function.
The average orthodontic treatment plan is anywhere from 18 months to three years. It's different for everyone, but anything beyond a four-year treatment plan warrants getting second, third and fourth opinions.
As a general rule, teeth will move around if there is free space to fill. Teeth shifting is particularly common after molar extraction because molars are so large. There is a larger gap in your smile for other teeth to move into. Shifting can even occur after third molar extraction, aka wisdom teeth removal.
Typically, the lateral incisors or the teeth next to your front teeth are the most challenging to move with Invisalign aligners and traditional braces.
Your orthodontist will shave off a small amount of enamel, depending on your treatment plan. It is usually a fraction of a millimeter. So, the gaps left after the shaving will hardly be noticeable. The purpose of shaving is to ensure that your teeth look aesthetically pleasing once they move into their positions.
Being fitted for your retainer is the very last step of the removal process. Once your orthodontist has completely cleaned your teeth and removed all wires and brackets, he or she will take an impression of your teeth. This impression will be used to create your customized retainer.
Accelerated Tooth Decay or Tooth Loss
Without a root, the bone at the site of extraction will shrink, possibly causing the rest of your smile to shift in a way that puts too much stress and wear on the other teeth. Accelerated tooth loss or tooth decay is a real possibility.
That exposes the underlying bone and nerves and results in severe pain. More serious risks, which become more common with age, include nerve and blood-vessel damage. As with any surgery, wisdom-tooth removal does carry the very rare risk of death.
Impacted wisdom teeth are wisdom teeth that have failed to erupt properly. They are generally considered to be the most difficult teeth to extract. The higher the degree of impaction, the more difficult the extraction. However, experienced oral surgeons can perform this procedure efficiently and comfortably.
While our dentists and team make it our goal to avoid tooth removal whenever possible, it sometimes does become necessary to extract teeth. The most commonly removed teeth are the third molars, also known as wisdom teeth.
Many dentists lack the experience and the skill to remove difficult teeth. Teeth that have had root canals, have long roots, or are ankylosed (fused) to your bone tissue are nightmares to take out for a lot of dental practitioners.
How long can you wait to replace a missing tooth? It is advised to replace missing teeth as soon as possible to prevent teeth shifting. If you had a tooth extracted it is advised to wait four to six months to have the tooth replaced.
Usually, when a tooth is removed by a dentist, the roots are taken out with it. However, if the tooth is lost through accident or decay, the root or roots may be retained within the jawbone and gums, causing problems such as mouth infections and pain. If this is the case, the roots need to be surgically removed.
The easiest way to stop your teeth from shifting after you get your braces off is to wear your retainer. As soon as your braces come off, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and have retainers custom made for your new smile. Your regular retainers will either be fixed or removable.