How long does it take for extraction gaps to close with braces...?!

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I would be more concern about the high probability of your developing TMJ after your braces are off. But 3-4 months is about average to close the spaces which will also force your lower jaw to bite too far back, make your nose and chin more prominent, and cause loss of lip support so that your facial profile will worsen (become dished-in). When will traditional orthodontists ever learn that bicuspid extraction treatment is old, antiquated, and potentially damaging to the jaw joints?

functional orthodontist; treated TMJ since 1984

I'm in exactly the same situation if it helps! Four teeth extracted two weeks ago, and getting braces on April 1st. I was told between 9-12 months for them to completely close, but it would become a lot less noticeable after about 4-6 months.

You shouldn't really still have to eat soft foods though :S If you're still in pain I would go back and see the dentist, i'm perfectly fine now and back to eating everything normally (with the exception of anything including a straw because it just feels too strange).

it felt like mine would never close lol i had 4 out too, an i remember bein able to put my tongue between the gaps,but a year later ther all closed!! (seems long but its really not!!)

mine never did close