Ask the Dental Experts

Q: Is there a faster way than braces to fix my son's permanent front bucked teeth? He is embarrassed to smile and I fear that braces would take too long to correct the problem.

A: There are many factors involved in this question. Depending on your son's age, options vary for management of this problem.
* If he has any habits such as thumb-sucking, etc., modification of these habits can dramatically help the flaring teeth. It is possible to push the teeth out of position. There are some habit appliances designed for this
* Removable retainers can also be used to straighten teeth in minor problems, or these can be used as interim appliances to improve the general situation before it would be timely to have conventional orthodontic care
* Traditional orthodontic care with braces might be indicated and will certainly solve the problem
* Newer techniques such as Invisalign (clear, removable orthodontic appliances) can also resolve most problems of flaring teeth.
* Rarely there is a skeletal problem that is underlying, and orthodontic treatment plus surgical treatment might be necessary


So you see that you need the input of your dentist and probably your orthodontist to answer the question fully for his situation. In general, orthodontic treatment is not fast. It is slow movement of teeth that accomplishes the goals of straighter teeth. Lots of patience is needed, but it is worth it.