iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersOrthodontistspacing in between the teeth

Is it normal to develop gaps and pain between teeth during orthodontic treatment?

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

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 18 years old and have braces on my teeth. My orthodontist said he would not put a bracket on my milk tooth, but the permanent tooth next to my milk tooth has shifted. Now, there is a gap between the two teeth, which hurts. Should I be concerned about it?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You should not be concerned regarding the milk tooth being present and shifting out of the arch. They are not supposed to be handled with braces. The tooth will fall off soon and replace a permanent tooth. When the new tooth erupts, the orthodontist will put a bracket to align it with the other teeth. This should be fine. The concern arises when it is found that a permanent tooth is missing. This can be evaluated by an OPG (orthopantomogram), where we can find out about the development of the underlying tooth and its position. Sometimes it does pain, but it should be a temporary one. Once the tooth is shed off, the pain will subside, and a new tooth should replace it. Avoid touching that area constantly.

Regarding follow up

I request you to share the most recent dental X-ray.

Medically reviewed byDr. K. Shobana

Published At August 24, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 11, 2023

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Listen to related tracks in our music library

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.