When you acquire braces as a kid, you usually give the orthodontist a blank canvas to work with—newly erupted, flawless permanent teeth that are just ready to be aligned. If you’re a little older, though, your canvas may already be a little cluttered, with fillings, crowns, and even even a missing tooth. Is it still possible for our doctors at Georgia School of Orthodontics to deal with that more sophisticated picture? Yes!
Fillings
Many of us have had one or more fillings. In most cases, an old filling should not impede with the placement of new braces. Large fillings, on the other hand, may necessitate the use of spacers. These small rubber bands are inserted between two teeth as needed to make room for bands and brackets, and are usually placed a week or two before your braces are installed. As the gap between the teeth widens, they frequently fall out on their own.
Crowns
There’s no reason to be anxious if you’ve undergone a root canal or another dental procedure that resulted in a capped tooth. Brackets can be adhered to crowns with a specific dental glue.
Implants
If you have or would like to get an implant, this is a time to coordinate with your orthodontist and dentist or oral surgeon. Sometimes an implant can anchor your appliance, and sometimes it’s best to keep the spot open until your orthodontic work is completed. Once in place, an implant will not have the mobility of a tooth, so it’s always best to make sure your doctors can create a schedule that will work for both the installation of the implant and the positioning of your braces.
Healthy Teeth and Gums
Consult your dentist before beginning orthodontic treatment. If you require a filling or crown, are considering a dental implant, are experiencing gum disease symptoms, or have any other dental problems, you should first consult with your dentist. At any age, healthy teeth and gums are the ideal foundation for orthodontic treatment.
If you’re wondering if our doctors and staff at GSO can help you attain the smile of your dreams, come see us in our Atlanta or Gwinnett offices! When we’re designing your future of picture-perfect smiles, we’ll take into account a variety of factors, including your previous dental work.
