Cosmetic improvment of relapsed orthodontic work, missing laterals
Cosmetic improvment of relapsed orthodontic work, missing laterals
Added: October 16, 2007 - 2:13 PM
By: Patient Email Withheld, Brookline, MA
Need Dentist / Specialist:
Yes
Provide Cost Estimate:
Yes
X-rays Available:
Yes
Case Summary
Porcelain Veneers / Crowns
Dental Implants
Braces / Invisilign
Teeth: 5,6,8,9,11,12
Last Full Mouth X-Ray: unsure
Last Cleaning: less than 6 mos ago
Case Description
I'm a 30 year old male with congenitally missing lateral incisors. At the age of 18, I completed orthodontic treatment designed to move my canines into the position of the laterals. I had bonding on the reshaped canines and was reasonably happy with the result.
My teeth have moved slightly, with spaces opening up between my re-shaped canines and my centrals. I am not satisfied with the "chunky" look of the reshaped canines (especially in oblique view) and the spaces are unattractive.
I've investigated a number of treatments - orthodontic treatment to close the spaces (Invisalign and/or traditional brackets), had a 6 veneer wax-up done and even been told I should consider opening up space for implants in the lateral position and returning the canines to their natural position (after some significant ortho work).
Extensive ortho work would be difficult as a mid-career adult and I have decalcifications from previous ortho treatment. The veneer wax-up looked unnatural and simply closing the spaces and being conservative doesn't address all of my cosmetic concerns.
I'm hoping to hear some opinions or thoughts from dentists with experience in a multi-specialty environment, maybe. Thus far, I've gotten a lot of shrugged shoulders, long treatment times, expensive cost estimates or all three! Thanks in advance.
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Reply: Cosmetic improvment of relapsed orthodontic work, missing laterals
added: October 16, 2007 - 5:00 PM
Cost Estimate: $
No Estimate at this time. Additional information required.
Hi. Sounds like you''''ve have a lot of work done, only to not be happy with the result in the end. It''''s difficult to comment on your case without actually seeing your teeth (or at least models of them) and a good set of diagnostic x-rays. I would be happy to take a look at your teeth at my office and give you my opinion. We are a multispecialty practice. Feel free to call my office if you like. Best regards.
Reply: Cosmetic improvment of relapsed orthodontic work, missing laterals
added: October 17, 2007 - 11:23 AM
Cost Estimate: $
No Estimate at this time. Additional information required.
It sounds like you have explored almost every option available.Unfortunately, there is probably not going to be a shortcut to the result you are interested in achieving. Without actually examining you, my single piece of advice to you is that I would not look for the quickest and cheapest treatment plan, you are talking about an investment that if done properly will turn out better and last much longer.Best regards.
Reply: Cosmetic improvment of relapsed orthodontic work, missing laterals
added: October 17, 2007 - 12:31 PM
Cost Estimate: $
No Estimate at this time. Additional information required.
Unfortunately you are facing a problem which has only two options, either do nothing, or you need to spend lots of time and money to help this situation, and I mean help (!) not eliminate the problem. But, this time you should find your self a team of board certified specialists, led by a board certified Prosthodontist, expert in aesthetic reconstructive. This time around maybe a little easier, next time you maybe a little older and your biological system weaker to undergo extended treatment.Wish you great luck.
Reply: Cosmetic improvment of relapsed orthodontic work, missing laterals
added: October 17, 2007 - 5:43 PM
Cost Estimate: $consultation $150 with composite
You have a wonderful grasp of the complexities of your missing laterals, and have had some educated opinions. But it would be interesting to explore the way YOU want your teeth to look; what is natural to a dentist may not be to you. I would suggest an in -office, temporary application of composite (white, restorative bonding material) to your teeth to see what you consider to be your objective. This can be rapidly altered and adjusted to get the result you want. Photos can be taken, and you can consider the look, and how to get it, if it is possible. This is easily removeable material, and is more instructive than the wax-up, in my opinion. It sounds like you want some changes, but still want to look like yourself, and not artificial. I have a multispeciality practice in Brookline, including implant specialists and orthodontist, and would be happy to consult with you about your dilemma. This kind of situation is one of my interests, and is very engaging to cpnsider, and solve successfully. I''''d be happy to help you, just call for an appointment.
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