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What is the best option other than braces to fill the gap of missing upper left canine?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have an impacted tooth in the roof of my mouth and I do not have a top left canine. What are my options to fill the gap? A bridge or an implant? Or anything else? Not braces please and the fewer appointments are better.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

First of all, I need to know your age. The treatment plan varies according to the age factor.

Secondly, the impacted tooth no matter where it is, it should be 100% removed. This is done to reduce the possibility of complications in the future. It cannot even form a cyst, abscess, etc., because it is prone to infections. Only after the removal and depending on the remaining space restoration options are considered.

If you are young, then braces option will give you the best result because it does not involve grinding of teeth. Plus it gives you a permanent result. Even though the time frame is more for the treatment, it is worth it.

Next is the bridge option. Here, there is grinding of teeth on either side of the gap. Reliable but why do you want to unnecessarily grind the teeth which might make your teeth sensitive when the bridge fails in the long run. Then you got to fix it again. Double expense.

Implant is a good option. This depends on how sound is your jaw bone and for canines, it is mostly not considered because of the difficulty in imitating the natural aesthetics.

For a detailed and customized treatment plan please visit your dentist and discuss the best option that suits your age and the quality of bone.

Medically reviewed byDr. Vinodhini J.

Published At April 8, 2017
Reviewed AtJanuary 18, 2020

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