How long for extraction gaps to finish closing?

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amm531
Posts: 12
Joined: Thu Dec 12, 2013 12:35 pm
Location: Kansas City, MO, USA

How long for extraction gaps to finish closing?

#1 Post by amm531 »

Went to the orthodontist this morning and he said I'm DONE once my upper first premolar extraction gaps have finished closing. I have about 1 mm to go on one side and 2.5 mm to go on the other side. It's been just under a year since my extractions, so I'm kind of frustrated that I still have as much as 2.5 mm to go on the left side. I'm feeling VERY antsy now that I've been told that the gaps are the only thing keeping me from a brace-free smile.

I know it's different for everyone, but can anyone comment on how long it took for the last of their extraction gaps to go away? How long do we think I'm looking at before my debracing date?

ljms
Posts: 127
Joined: Mon Oct 07, 2013 8:19 am
Location: Manitoba

Re: How long for extraction gaps to finish closing?

#2 Post by ljms »

I'm not sure you're going to like my answer but I've had braces for over 14 months and one of my gaps is still about 2 mm wide. As I have 10 to 16 months to go, I'm not overly concerned about it.

My gaps didn't start to close fast until I got a power chain three months ago. If the gap I have now doesn't close with the power chain, my ortho plans to use a TAD to help it along. At this time, he doesn't think it will be necessary, but will have a better idea in the spring.

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