I have a missing tooth and a few other teeth have tipped into the space. what can i do? my general dentist recommended that i go see an orthodontist because he says that braces or invisalign can straighten my teeth. in one area there is a tooth missing sh

You : You asked a very good question... And the answer depends on your bite, how much space there is to close, how much bone is there to put an implant, etc. In short, there are a number of possibilities. However, if you are going through the trouble and expense of orthodontics in the first place, why not just close the space, upright the teeth, and skip the time and expense of the implant? Discuss this with the orthodontist for a better explanation of your options for this one tooth.

I : I would recommend having the orthodontist close the space if possible. Your orthodontist would make the best recommendation based on your occlussion, periodontal health and bone levels. The main reason i like to close the space is because i like to have patients use their natural teeth to relieve crowding and save money in the long way. Good luck.

It : It is impossible to answer that question without knowing more about your specific situation. Ask your orthodontist to explain the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. After that discussion it will probably be clear to you which way to go.

Today : Today it is always preferred to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant if possible. You should visit a dentist skilled in implant dentistry and follow his or her advice. If it is decided that an implant would be advisable in your case, the dentist should refer you to an orthodontist to reposition your teeth to then allow implant dentistry to follow.

Good advice: Seeking the opinion of an orthodontic specialist is best to determine what would be required to "upright" your teeth in anticipation of replacing your missing teeth. Continuing collapse of the "tipped" teeth is the likely consequence of avoiding treatment.

See an orthodontists: Missing teeth are like dominoes. They tip into the extraction space and the one above will erupt into the space below. Correcting this usually requires braces as invisalign cannot parellel the roots of the teeth. It can tip them some and rotate them. To get the space ready for an implant or bridge usually requires braces.

FInd an Orthodontist: Find a local orthodontist. Your orthodontist will assess your case to help align your teeth, and will decide if it is better to close the space or upright your teeth to make space for an implant to restore the missing tooth.

Orthodontic care: The spacing of the teeth can be fixed by orthodontic care (ie. Braces, invisalign) an orthodontist can address most of the spacing issues.

Ortho: When a missing tooth goes unreplaced the remaining teeth can collapse into the open space. Over time enough tooth collapse can require orthodontic procedures to restore the proper position of the teeth at which point the missing tooth can be replaced with an implant or bridge.

Traditional braces: Your case is exactly the kind of situation that a certified orthodontist is trained to correct well and in good time. Invisalign is unlikely to prove helpful in the long run. See a real orthodontist, they will review your options and the best way to correct your problems. Good luck.

Schedule an exam: You should schedule an exam with an orthodontist to discuss your options. Your general dentist is right. Braces or invisalign can often be used to upright the tipped teeth so the dentist can restore the missing teeth. In some cases orthodontics can be used to completely close the space.

Dentist is right: See an orthodontist. They may be able to close the space of the missing tooth.