Why You Should Visit Your Dentist Before Starting Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatments like braces and clear aligners (a.k.a. Invisalign) are the go-to ways to get straighter, more aligned teeth. And, while you may be getting your treatment from a very qualified orthodontist, you may not realize that you should see your dentist prior to your orthodontic treatment as well.

While it may seem like an extra step, this pre-orthodontic checkup can save you time, money, and potential complications down the road.

The Importance of Dental Health Prior to Orthodontics

While your orthodontist is an expert in straightening your teeth, your general dentist plays a vital role in ensuring your mouth is healthy and ready for treatment.

Professional Cleaning

Braces specifically can make it more difficult to clean teeth and gums, making you potentially more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Be sure to see your regular dentist for a professional cleaning, if possible, before having braces placed. A professional dental cleaning is much more thorough than what you can accomplish with just brushing and flossing alone, and you want to start your orthodontic treatment with a clean slate.

Identifying and Treating Cavities

Cavities, or tooth decay, can complicate orthodontic treatment if left untreated. As we mentioned, braces and aligners can make it more difficult to clean your teeth effectively, potentially exacerbating existing cavities. Your dentist will check for any signs of decay and provide necessary treatments, such as fillings, to ensure your teeth are healthy before beginning orthodontics.

Evaluating Gum Health

Healthy gums are important for successful orthodontic treatment. Gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, can cause bone loss and tooth mobility, which may impact the effectiveness of braces or aligners. And while you technically can start braces treatment with active gum disease, you want to be sure to treat your gum disease before getting clear aligners, as aligners can actually make gum disease worse by irritating gum tissue.

We will assess your gum health and recommend any necessary treatments, like a deep cleaning or scaling and root planing, to get your gums in optimal condition before starting orthodontics.

Addressing Dental Restorations

If you have existing dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, or implants, your dentist will evaluate their condition and stability. Some restorations may need to be replaced or modified to accommodate orthodontic appliances and ensure the best possible treatment outcome.

Performing Necessary Extractions

In some cases, your orthodontist may recommend extracting certain teeth before beginning orthodontic treatment. This is often done to create space for proper tooth alignment or to remove teeth that are severely decayed or damaged. By addressing these issues prior to orthodontics, you can avoid potential complications and achieve better results.

The Benefits of a Pre-Orthodontic Dental Visit

Scheduling a dental checkup before starting orthodontic treatment offers several key benefits.

Improved Oral Health

By establishing a solid foundation of dental health before starting braces or aligners, you can reduce your risk of developing these issues. Addressing cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues upfront allows your orthodontic treatment to proceed smoothly and efficiently.

Enhanced Treatment Outcomes

Pre-orthodontic dental care helps to create the best possible environment for tooth movement and alignment. By addressing potential obstacles, such as decayed or missing teeth, you can achieve more predictable, better, and faster results from your orthodontic treatment.

Cost Savings

Identifying and treating dental problems early can save you money in the long run, and that applies to your orthodontic treatment as well. By avoiding complications and setbacks during treatment, you can stay on track with your orthodontic plan and minimize the need for additional appointments or interventions.

Are You Planning Orthodontic Treatment?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, one of your first steps should be to schedule a dental visit. Let us know so we can provide a thorough evaluation of your oral health and recommend any necessary treatments to prepare you for braces or aligners.

Call our office today to book your pre-orthodontic dental checkup!