Concerns About Retained Baby Teeth and Orthodontic Options at 17

Q: Concerns About Retained Baby Teeth and Orthodontic Options at 17

Hello, Miss： Thank you for your question. <br>I would like to respond to your inquiry and provide the following advice： At 17 years old, if a primary tooth has not yet fallen out, it may be due to incomplete resorption of the tooth root during the transition to permanent teeth. <

The primary teeth have not yet fallen out?

1.
Doctor, I am 17 years old and during my last dental cleaning, the dentist told me that I still have a baby tooth that hasn't fallen out.
I noticed that this tooth is a bit loose now.
If it falls out, will it grow back?
2.
Doctor, my teeth are relatively straight, but the gaps between my upper teeth are quite large.
I would like to know what orthodontic options are available.
If I get braces, will it affect my facial shape? Since I already have a square face, will wearing braces improve it?

Dangao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/12/18

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello, Miss: Thank you for your question.
I would like to respond to your inquiry and provide the following advice: At 17 years old, if a primary tooth has not yet fallen out, it may be due to incomplete resorption of the tooth root during the transition to permanent teeth.
If the primary tooth is slightly loose at this age, it is advisable to extract it, as the primary tooth will not grow back after removal.
Wishing you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2011/12/18

More Info

At 17 years old, having a retained baby tooth is not uncommon, and it can raise several concerns regarding dental health and orthodontic treatment. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Retained Baby Tooth: If your dentist has indicated that your baby tooth is still present and is now slightly loose, it is likely that the permanent tooth beneath it is ready to erupt. In many cases, once the baby tooth falls out, the permanent tooth will come in to take its place. However, if the baby tooth does not fall out naturally, it may need to be extracted to allow the permanent tooth to emerge properly. Retained baby teeth can sometimes lead to misalignment or overcrowding if they prevent the permanent teeth from coming in correctly. Therefore, it’s advisable to follow up with your dentist or an orthodontist to determine the best course of action.

2. Orthodontic Options: Since you mentioned that your teeth are relatively straight but you have large gaps between your upper teeth, there are several orthodontic options available to you. Traditional braces are a common choice and can effectively close gaps and align teeth. Other options include clear aligners, such as Invisalign, which are less noticeable and can also be effective for closing gaps and correcting alignment issues.

Regarding your concern about braces affecting your facial shape, it’s important to note that while braces can change the position of your teeth, they typically do not drastically alter your facial structure. However, some changes may occur as your teeth move into their new positions, which can enhance your overall appearance. If you have a square face shape and are concerned about how braces might affect it, discussing this with your orthodontist can provide you with tailored advice. They can explain how different types of braces or aligners might influence your facial aesthetics.

In addition to braces, there are other orthodontic treatments such as palatal expanders or retainers that can help with spacing issues. Your orthodontist will assess your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on your dental health, aesthetic goals, and personal preferences.

Finally, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene throughout your orthodontic treatment. This includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as attending follow-up appointments with your orthodontist to monitor your progress.
In summary, having a retained baby tooth at 17 is manageable, and with the right orthodontic treatment, you can achieve a beautiful smile while addressing any concerns about gaps or alignment. Be sure to consult with your dentist or an orthodontist to discuss your options and create a personalized treatment plan that suits your needs.

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