Can a missing lateral incisor be fixed in teens?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a teenager and do not have any milk teeth left. My top row of teeth is slightly moved to one side as I have a missing lateral incisor. My dentist told me it is slightly rare in adult teeth. I was not born with missing teeth, but I did have an accident when I was a few years old that caused me to fall and hit my face, which caused my baby teeth to push through my gums slightly early. I am unsure if that caused it.

I also have severe jaw problems. I have been having a locking jaw for a while that feels painful. I have had multiple retainers to stop grinding my teeth, but it has not helped me much. So far, only an X-ray has been taken. I feel extremely insecure about my smile and hate it because it is slightly to the left.

Kindly help

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

As much as I can understand from your query, you seem to be worried about two problems. The first is your missing lateral incisor, and the other is your jaw problems. Your first one is called an impacted tooth. Diagnosis is confirmed by X-ray, which occurs more commonly in the canines and third molars and less commonly in lateral incisors. Many causes can lead to this. Trauma is one of the main causes of impaction.

Your second problem is that you have a problem in your temporomandibular joint, which is most probably due to your teeth grinding habit. Both issues need a evaluation by an orthodontist; he can move your teeth with specific wires until your occlusion is adjusted. Regarding your grinding habit, your TMJ (temporomandibular joint) must be evaluated by specific X-rays. After this, the orthodontist might customize a suitable night guard for you. Do not stress yourself. This will affect your whole body, and not just your teeth. So calm down and search for a good orthodontist near you.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.