When you want to change your profile, taking teeth out is part of the plan

 

Removing teeth can sometimes be a necessary step in orthodontic treatment to improve facial profile, but it’s not a universal solution and can have both positive and negative impacts.

Careful consideration and planning are crucial, as the effects vary depending on the individual and the specific treatment plan.

While some people may see an improvement in facial balance, others might experience unwanted changes like a sunken appearance or exaggerated underbite.

 

When Teeth Removal Can Be Beneficial:

  • Addressing Protruding Front Teeth:

In cases of a convex profile with a prominent jaw, removing certain teeth (like premolars) can allow the front teeth to move back, creating a more harmonious facial profile.

  • Creating Space for Alignment:

When there’s overcrowding, removing teeth can create space for the remaining teeth to be properly aligned, which can indirectly improve the facial profile.

  • Balancing Lip Support:

In some cases, tooth extractions can help to improve the balance and proportion of the lips, though this is a complex area with varying results.

  • Avoiding Over-Expansion:

In adults, arch expansion (widening the dental arch) can be limited, and sometimes extraction is necessary to prevent relapse (teeth moving back to their original position).

Important Considerations:

  • Individualized Treatment:

The decision to remove teeth for orthodontic purposes is highly individualized and depends on various factors, including the patient’s facial structure, the severity of the malocclusion, and their overall treatment goals.

  • Careful Planning:

Thorough evaluation and treatment planning are essential to minimize potential negative impacts and maximize the chances of a positive outcome.

  • Soft Tissue Changes:

Orthodontic treatment can affect the soft tissues of the face (lips, cheeks, etc.).While these changes can be beneficial, they can also be detrimental in some cases.

  • Long-Term Effects:

The effects of tooth extractions on facial profile can be seen long after the treatment is completed. Therefore, it’s important to consider the long-term implications of any treatment plan.

Case study:

Female patient aged 28 wanted to correct her dental crowding and also her facial profile.

We advised the removal of 2 upper and 2 lower premolar teeth and Invisalign to retract the front teeth.

We expected the profile to become relaxed as well.

Over the course of 18 months we provided Invisalign treatment (with the added difficulty of attaching buttons to Zirconium crowns) and ended up with straight teeth and a beautiful profile.

Invisalign with extractions can be a difficult treatment modality, but in experienced hands we can get great results without the need for metal braces.

#invisalign#teeth protruding#teeth crowding#facial profile