Short answer: Before starting orthodontic treatment, treating cavities, achieving gum health and evaluating teeth suspected of root canal problems or infection are generally requested. This is because these problems can progress while the teeth are moving or can interrupt the treatment. The scope of the necessary procedures is determined by the examination and X-rays.
Why is oral health evaluated first?
Plaque buildup can increase around braces or attachments. A healthy start helps reduce the risk of cavities and gum problems throughout treatment. For general information on the process, you can see our page on the first orthodontic examination.
1. Cavity check
- Existing cavities are treated; small cavities can become hard to notice once the wires are placed.
- Old or leaking fillings may be renewed.
- Broken or inadequate fillings can affect the surface where the bracket will be bonded.
For the signs of decay, you can take a look at our article on symptoms of tooth decay.
2. Gum and tartar check
- Tartar cleaning is done before treatment starts.
- If there is gum bleeding or inflammation, it is brought under control first.
- In people with advanced gum disease, orthodontics is planned together with periodontology.
For the role of the gums in the treatment process, you can see our article on gum recession.
3. Root canal treatment and infection assessment
- Teeth with, or suspected of having, inflammation at the root tip are assessed on X-ray.
- Teeth that have had root canal treatment before are checked before treatment.
- Teeth with root canal treatment can also be moved; however, if there is a problem at the root tip, it is asked to be resolved first.
For information on teeth with root canal treatment, you can see our article on sensitivity in teeth with root canal treatment.
4. Impacted or problem teeth
Wisdom teeth, impacted canines or teeth planned for extraction are assessed on X-ray. Whether an extraction is needed is part of the orthodontic plan and is not required for every patient.
5. Habits and hygiene instruction
- The brushing technique is reviewed.
- The use of floss or an interdental brush is demonstrated.
- The frequency of sugary drinks and snacks is reduced.
Some of these procedures can be carried out by your own dentist or another specialist. The plan becomes clear after the orthodontic examination.
Does this preparation delay treatment?
The preparation stage may take a few sessions for some people and longer for others; for people whose mouth is already healthy, a short check may be enough. The aim is not to delay treatment but to avoid running into bigger problems in the coming months. It should be remembered that complaints may increase while teeth with a cavity or gum problem are being moved.
If you will use clear aligners
Because clear aligners cover the teeth, a cavity or gum inflammation under the aligner can be overlooked. For this reason, a cavity and gum check is also done before clear aligner treatment. For broader information, you can see our page on the clear aligner treatment process.
In children and teenagers
The risk of decay may be higher in baby teeth and in newly erupted permanent teeth. In children who will start orthodontic treatment, cavities are treated first, and then the brushing habit is reviewed together. For oral health in children, you can see our article on the age-based check-up and care schedule.
Frequently raised points about the preparation process
Many people want to start orthodontic treatment with enthusiasm and may find the preparation stage unnecessary. Yet this stage helps prevent surprises that could cause extra complaints and extra sessions during treatment. At the examination, a panoramic X-ray and, if necessary, additional images are usually taken, and then which procedures will be done and in what order is discussed. Some procedures can be done by your own dentist; the orthodontic plan proceeds in step with them.
Treatments planned at the same time as orthodontics
Some procedures are done during or after orthodontic treatment. For example, if an implant is planned for a missing tooth, the implant and orthodontics plan is handled together so that it proceeds in step with the movement of the teeth. Whitening for aesthetic purposes is usually left until after treatment; for details, you can see our article on teeth whitening after braces.
Making oral hygiene habits lasting is also a goal of the preparation process. Continuing regular tartar cleaning, the use of fluoride toothpaste and check-up appointments throughout treatment makes it easier to complete treatment with a healthy mouth. We can plan all of these steps together at the first examination.
Frequently asked questions
Can braces be fitted when there is a cavity?
Treatment of the cavity is generally requested first. This is because noticing and treating a cavity around braces can become difficult.
Is a gum problem an obstacle for orthodontics?
A gum problem that has not been brought under control can delay the start of treatment. Once the problem is corrected, treatment can be planned.
Can teeth with root canal treatment be moved with braces?
In most cases, yes. It is important to make sure there is no problem at the root tip and to have regular check-ups.
How do you find out what suits you?
The information here is general; the right plan for you is determined through an examination and the dentist’s evaluation. At our clinic in Oran, Çankaya, Ankara, we go through your questions together during the first orthodontic examination.
