Can Orthodontic Care Be A Prerequisite To Implants?

One of the sole goals of dentists is to replace missing teeth, and back then, osseointegration was the primary objective for oral care. However, advances in today's technology have led us to focus on aesthetics as the primary objective because longevity and function are more predictable than ever. When it comes to malocclusion, the absence or presence of a missing tooth often leaves many dentists wondering whether or not to leave open space for tooth replacement or close the space using orthodontics. For those in the particular scenario of choosing between implants or braces for their treatment, it might be good to know that orthodontic work may be easier than you'd think. 

When It's Appropriate To Get Orthodontic Work 

Patients who have lost a tooth and have severe malocclusion find themselves in an unusual scenario of choosing between two treatment options or choosing which treatment option to work with first to improve their oral health. When working with their orthodontist, restorative dentist, or implant specialist, dentists in this position are responsible for understanding the bigger picture or final objective their patient desires most. To best achieve the patient's outcome, many specialties often have to work together as a team, educating one another on their procedures, projected outcomes, and how to best coordinate for the patient. 

This dedicated cooperation among dentists can provide the much-needed security, and trust patients need to follow through with their planned treatment. But why would some patients need orthodontics while others need implants? The reason behind it is because dentistry exists entirely on a person-by-person basis, as each individual's oral health is unique to them. For orthodontists, their position will ultimately rely on the procedures they can perform and can be affected by various factors, including: 

• Insufficient Room: Patients with a missing tooth and severe malocclusion may require orthodontic care first, especially if the missing tooth space does not have enough room for the implant. 
• Less-Permanent Alternatives: While braces can be awkward for most adults, those with more mild cases of malocclusion can choose clear aligners to straighten their teeth and prepare for implants gradually. 
• Significant Bone Loss: Some patients may not even qualify for implants due to gum disease or bone loss throughout the jawbone, which may require bone grafts and periodontal treatment to remove or repair. 
• Implants Can't Be Repositioned: Lastly, one of the biggest reasons some dentists may recommend orthodontic care is because once placed, implants cannot be repositioned due to the process of osseointegration. 

Find Your Restoration Goals With Your Local Orthodontist

If you have issues with your oral health, you can accomplish your restoration goals by undergoing orthodontic work ahead of time. Orthodontic care provides a higher chance of implant success and can help restore your smile entirely after tooth loss. Orthodontic work also allows you to explore other options for dental care, including veneers, dentures, and crowns. If you wish to learn more, contact your local orthodontist for an appointment.