Orthodontist Questions Orthodontist

Can you get braces if you have a missing tooth?

I am a 27 year old female. I want to know if you can get braces if you have a missing tooth?

12 Answers

Absolutely! If you have a missing tooth, you can still get braces. In fact, braces can usually correct your bite and prepare the space where you have a missing tooth for an implant, bridge, or partial denture, to replace your missing tooth and allow you to function as if you had a full set of teeth. Another possible option with braces is the possibility to close the space of the missing tooth, depending on your bite and situation. So, call your local orthodontist and get a consult to go over your particular dental situation and discuss some treatment options.

Daniel A. Flores, DDS, MS
Yes! Actually that is sometimes the best reason to get braces. An orthodontist can help you determine what might be the best way to restore any function or longevity that is lost from your missing tooth.
Yes you can get braces when you have a missing tooth. The braces can be used to open the space to the ideal size for a replacement tooth. In some cases the braces can be used to close the spaces completely, eliminating the need for implants or bridges.
Absolutely! Some spaces from missing teeth can be closed with braces and then there is no need to restore the missing teeth with a bridge or an implant.
Absolutely. Braces are a non-invasive way to close spaces caused by tooth loss too.
Yes, you can, as long as the bone support around your teeth is healthy. An orthodontist can determine this and how to handle the space. Depends on where the space is; if in the front, they will most likely open or rearrange the teeth so a replacement can be make later by your dentist. If it is towards the back, it may be best to open the space for an implant or bridge or at time to close the space. Many factors are considered in what is the best path for you. See an Orthodontic Specialist in your area.

William E. Harrell, Jr., DMD, C.DSM
Yes, you can. Good orthodontics will allow the orthodontist to make enough room for you to have a replacement tooth of the correct size and color fill in the space or, if possible, close the space.
Absolutely!! I treat a lot of patients with missing teeth. A lot of the time, we need to position teeth so that a bridge or implant can replace the missing tooth/teeth properly.

Sincerely,

Robert E. Sims, D.M.D, M.S.D.
Yes, you absolutely can get orthodontic treatment when you have a missing tooth. In fact, many times, the orthodontic treatment will help place all the teeth into a healthier or more stable position.
We routinely supply missing teeth with braces or aligners through out treatment if it is an aesthetic problem in the front. If a back tooth is missing and not visible we just make sure the proper space is maintained for a replacement once orthodontic treatment is complete
Yes
Absolutely! If there is a space where your tooth is missing, the orthodontist can place a space maintainer to prevent closure of that space. The same thing can be done by a general dentist who is certified to provide orthodontic care using clear aligner therapy such as Invisalign. What needs to be considered is how to fill the space in the future, and that is something you would discuss with your general dentist.