Braces Without Extractions

Lake Forest, IL – If you are looking at getting orthodontic treatment in your later teens or adult years, you probably have a few questions. One common question is “is it possible to get braces later in life, without having to have any teeth extracted?” Dr. Michael Stosich answers that question.

“For the vast majority of our Lake Forest patients, a better smile can be achieved without losing any permanent teeth,” says Dr. Stosich. “Our goal is always to preserve the natural teeth whenever possible.” Here is how modern orthodontics makes the non-extraction approach possible.

The evolution of orthodontics

Staying on the forefront of the latest advances in the orthodontic world is important to Dr. Stosich. He focuses on scientifically-backed, proven methods to provide his patients with their perfect smiles.

In the past, when patients had severe crowding, the traditional solution was to remove the first premolars to make room for proper alignment of the rest of the teeth. This approach worked, but there were some downsides. Patients often were left with a more narrow smile and even a flatter facial appearance.

Today, Dr. Stosich focuses on advanced biomechanics and specialized appliances to expand the arches and move the teeth more efficiently. We no longer have to focus on shrinking the smile to make it all fit, we can instead focus on optimizing the jaw to make adequate space.

How Dr. Stosich avoids extractions

There are several ways we can work to avoid extraction in our patients.

1. Palatal expansion. For younger patients who still have a growing jaw, we can take advantage of this growth and guide it to create the space needed for an ideal smile.
2. Distalization. Using specialized implants or springs, Dr. Stosioch can move the entire row of back teeth further to the back of the mouth. This then opens up space in the front.
3. Customized archwires. Dr. Stosich uses the latest technology to guide teeth, and that includes high-tech, heat-activated archwires. They work to guide the teeth using a gentle, steady pressure and are more effective than heavy force wires of the past.

“There are many benefits to preserving the natural teeth when possible,” says Dr. Stosich. “Avoiding extractions ensures a fuller looking smile, provides better facial support, and it also means a shorter treatment time because there is no waiting to heal after an extraction.”

Is extraction ever necessary?

While Dr. Stosich’s goal is always to preserve the natural teeth when possible, there may be occasions when extraction is the best option. Those rare occasions can include:

• Extreme protrusion that affects the ability to close the mouth
• Severe gum disease or bone loss that makes it impossible to salvage the tooth
• The jaw is physically too small to accommodate the teeth safely

During your consultation, Dr. Stosich uses special technology that can measure your jaw down to the millimeter. This allows him to create the best, personalized treatment to meet your needs and ensure your long-term oral health.

Schedule your consultation today!

Whether you are looking for a better smile for yourself or your teen, today is the perfect time to get started. You deserve a treatment plan that is as unique as you, and that respects your natural anatomy. Dr. Stosich combines scientific precision with an artist’s eye to create smiles that are as beautiful as they are functional.

Let’s explore your options for a beautiful, healthy smile without extractions. Call Deerpath Orthodontics and Family Dental today at 847-579-4979 to schedule your free consultation.