Orthodontics or Cosmetic Dentistry

Some aesthetic concerns can be fixed with orthodontics or with cosmetic dentistry. And there are benefits and disadvantages to both. Which is the best treatment? Well, that’s really for you to decide.

There really isn’t anything like your own teeth. So, orthodontics would be the best option if you want to transform your smile and keep everything minimally invasive and keep your natural teeth. But, it takes time. And, it takes commitment. It can also be a more costly treatment to embark on.

Cosmetic Dentistry is more affordable and can be faster. But, it requires maintenance and replacement and there are very small compromises in the result.

Missing lateral incisors

Missing lateral incisors, or Hypodontia as its known, is a surprisingly common issue.  It is most commonly a developmental anomaly and can be a challenge to manage clinically. It can occur in other tooth positions too, but missing upper laterals is the one that affects your smile the most.

treatment expectation

This patient presented with missing upper lateral incisors but otherwise great alignment. They wanted to improve their smile in the quickest, most affordable way.

orthodontic option

Dr Farnoosh Mimeh discussed all of the treatment options to be sure of the patient’s expectation and concerns. One of which was orthodontics, to open the space of the missing laterals and replace them with either dental bridges, or implants. This is a long treatment plan, on average 18-24months if dental implants are placed. It requires lots of time and careful planning; to ensure there is the correct space for the restorations to be placed. And that they are of proportionate size and shape. It will provide the most ‘ideal’ result but it is also expensive. So, quicker more affordable options were discussed.

benefits of orthodontics

• ideal alignment results
• no damage to natural tooth tissue
• no long term follow up appointments