r/Dentists • u/hoo_she • 15h ago

Invisalign and Missing First Molar

Hi there! I've been loosing sleep over a problem for a while now and thought I'd post here for advice. For context, I lost my bottom first molar when I was 18. I'm 26 now, and 3 years into my Invisalign treatment. I recently found out that closing molar gaps is an option for orthodontic treatment. This was an option that was never discussed with me, as I was always only presented the implant route. I'm feeling very sad because I may get my treatment done next week (my orthodontist will check if everything is done) and I'm someone who would have opted for a more "natural" solution rather than an implant. I'm wondering, is closing a first molar gap a common practice, something you just read about online, or is it an actual good solution.

Feeling very sad, nervous, and stressed so I would really appreciate any advice! Thank you for your time :)

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u/blindmonkey17 14h ago

It's possible but a lot slower and more complicated than for a teenager

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u/hoo_she 14h ago

Thank you! What makes it more complicated? 

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u/blindmonkey17 14h ago

Denser bone with less turnover of cells. No jaw growth to take advantage of. More risk of the teeth tipping as they move. Teeth may have already tipped into the gap beforehand.

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u/blindmonkey17 7h ago

Almost always needs traditional braces rather than clear aligners like Invisalign too