More and more adult patients are starting orthodontic treatment. It can be a limited treatment for some crowding on the front or it could be a more comprehensive treatment to address a bigger issue. With Invisalign, clear aligners, Champagne braces or gold braces, there are so many options to choose from and that is one of the main reasons why more adult patients are doing orthodontic treatment. Most adult patients have some questions regarding the sequencing of their treatment. So today, we have a detailed Q&A about sequencing your orthodontic treatment.
Should I get braces before or after implant?
Orthodontic treatment always comes before implant. There are several reasons for that:
- Your bite can and will change during orthodontic treatment. Your implant should be made according to your final bite
- There might not be enough room for your implant and orthodontic treatment will open adequate room for the implant
- Your orthodontist will look at the options of closing the gaps and you might not even need the implant
- Your orthodontist will coordinate with your dentist regarding the timing of your implant placement.
Should I get my cleaning done before or after braces/orthodontic exam?
Your cleaning appointment always comes before your orthodontic exam. Your dentist needs to check your gums and make sure you don’t have any active gum disease before you start your treatment. If you start your treatment with active gum disease, your gum disease could progress very rapidly and leave you in a worse situation than when you started. During your orthodontic treatment, you need to continue your regular cleaning appointments as well. Based on your current gum condition, your dentist might recommend cleanings be done every 3, 4 or 6 months during your braces/Invisalign treatment. Dr Sepi will coordinate that with your dentist in Kirkland, Woodinville, Redmond or Bellevue to make sure your cleanings are done regularly and that you do not fall behind on that.
Should I get Veneers before or after braces?
Veneers or in general, any type of definitive treatment on your teeth should be done after orthodontic treatment. There are several reasons for that:
- When your teeth are aligned, you might not need veneers
- When your teeth are aligned, Veneers will be placed in the ideal position
- When your teeth are aligned, less cutting of your teeth will be needed and you will be able to preserve your tooth structure better.
- Your bite can and will change with orthodontic treatment and your veneers should be made according to your final tooth position.
When in doubt, you can always ask your orthodontist which one comes first. Schedule your first free exam and you can see a simulation of your final smile at our office in Redmond. From there, you will be able to coordinate all the work that needs to be done on your teeth to get you to the smile you deserve.