Will orthodontic treatment be able to improve my side profile and overcrowding? (photos)

Doctor's Answer

Thank you for your enquiry.

Orthodontic treatment can most certainly correct your over-crowding issue. I am unable to assess your case in detail based on the images provided, and I would also need proper Xrays to assess the relationship of your teeth to the jaws.

Nonetheless, here are some of the issues orthodontic treatment can correct for you:

1) Overcrowding of your teeth (which is due to insufficient space in the jaws to accomodate all your teeth)
2) A midline problem (the centre-line of your upper and lower front teeth are not coincident)
3) A mild anterior open bite (your upper and lower front teeth do not overlap, which they ideally should)

You may need extractions of some teeth, this will depend on the treatment plan proposed by your orthodontist or dentist. Different clinicians may have differing treatment plans, yet all can arrive at a good outcome if managed well.

With regards to your side profile, I personally feel that it would be best for your teeth not be pushed in much, to balance out your other features such as your nose and chin.

What many patients don't realise, is that orthodontic treatment can only move the teeth and the bone surrounding the teeth to a limited extent, we are unable to change the positions of the jaws and chin.

It would be good for you to share with your orthodontist or dentist, your thoughts on how you would like your side profile to be improved. They can then advise you on whether it is possible with orthodontic treatment.

Hope this helps!

Warm regards,
Dr Geraldine Lee

Ask any health question for free

I’m not so sure about a procedure...

Ask Icon Ask a Question

Join Human

Sign up now for a free Human account to get answers from specialists in Singapore.

Sign Up

Get The Pill

Be healthier with our Bite-sized health news straight in your inbox