Now, I also have baby pre-molars that are adjacent to my canines. I wanted to know how long it would take to open a gap between my canines and central incisors in order to place an implant that would replace my lateral incisors? Also, would transplantation of my canines be possible? Or would it be better to get a veneer or crown to shape my canine like a lateral incisor and then extract my pre-molars and replace them with implants that look like a canines?
Dr. Huefner’s answer:
Based on the photo you sent, you have very little space, and as such it would be difficult (but not impossible) to orthodontically open the space large enough to place a dental implant. Not only is the small space a problem, but the canine teeth (the ones you want to move backwards) have the longest roots, and as such are more difficult to move. There is another problem as well, is that even if the space were opened you would most likely have to have bone augmentation (grafting) to have enough bone to place the implants into.
I do not believe tooth transplantation is possible to correct your problem.
I agree with the concept of porcelain veneers, as this is a very predictable way of correcting your problem. Braces and implants, even if they could be done would take many years. Porcelain veneer treatment can be completed in less than a month.
I refer you to the web link below, that shows a great example of spacing and missing lateral incisors treated with porcelain veneers.
Web reference: http://www.cosmetic-dentistry-and-porcelain-veneers.com/2010/11/24/turkey-teeth-gets-smile-makeover-with-porcelain-veneers-irvine