You’re ready for braces, but the first step isn’t just getting braces placed. The first step is actually with your dentist, not your orthodontist. You’ll typically need dental clearance for braces before treatment begins.
“Dental clearance for braces” means your dentist examines your teeth, gums, and jaws and confirms they’re healthy enough for treatment with braces or clear aligners. A healthy mouth helps treatment go smoothly, and your dentist will usually check that first.
That’s the first of many steps where your dentist and orthodontist coordinate your treatment. Dr. Smith and Dr. Davis create and carry out your treatment plan at Smith & Davis Orthodontics, while your dentist helps keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout the process.
What Does ‘Dental Clearance’ Mean?
What do we mean by dental clearance for braces? Dentists check for issues that could cause problems or delays later if you don’t address them now.
What might your dentist flag?
- Active cavities: Existing cavities usually need filling before treatment starts.
- Signs of tooth decay: Even if you don’t have cavities yet, you may have early signs of weakened enamel, such as discoloration. You may need to improve your oral hygiene habits, and your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments or dental sealants.
- Gum health: Your dentist will check that your gums are free of redness, swelling, or bleeding, which can signal early gum disease.
- Extractions or restorations: Do you have missing teeth? Are your teeth crowded enough that you may need extractions to make room? Your dentist can help prepare your mouth for treatment.
- Thorough cleaning: A professional cleaning before treatment removes plaque and buildup. Clean teeth help the brackets bond well to your enamel.
These issues need attention either way, but addressing them before treatment can help you avoid delays later. Otherwise, your dentist may need to remove part of your braces mid-treatment to treat a tooth.
Who Handles What During Treatment?
You may think your orthodontist can handle everything during treatment. After all, orthodontists are dentists too, right? That’s true, but your orthodontist focuses on moving your teeth safely and correctly and generally leaves other care to your dentist.
Your orthodontist focuses on tooth movement, bite correction, and the mechanics of braces or clear aligners. Your dentist handles cleanings, cavity checks, gum health, and any restorative work that comes up, such as fillings.
The relationship between a dentist and an orthodontist is similar to that of a primary care physician and a specialist, such as a cardiologist. One looks after your overall health, while the other focuses on a specific area of concern.
Keep seeing your dentist during treatment so they can check for cavities, gum disease, or decalcification that your orthodontist may not screen for as closely. Skipping these visits could let dental problems worsen and delay your treatment.
How Do They Coordinate?
How will your dentist and orthodontist work together during your treatment? If your orthodontist notices a possible cavity or signs of gum disease, they’ll typically let your dentist know and recommend a checkup.
We often request records from your dentist and share ours as needed, with your permission. This helps us coordinate and address problems before they worsen and delay treatment.
Sometimes we coordinate through the patient, too. A dentist may ask us to remove the archwires from your braces before your next cleaning so your teeth are easier to clean. In that case, you may be able to schedule an appointment with us the day before your dental visit to remove the archwires, then come back after your dental appointment to have them replaced.
We’re happy to help in this way, but you don’t need to be the go-between every time. We aim to stay in touch with your dentist throughout your treatment.
FAQs About Coordination Between Dentists and Orthodontists
What happens if my dentist finds a cavity while I’m in braces?
Depending on where the cavity is, your dentist may be able to fill it without disturbing your braces. If not, they can contact us, and we can remove the archwire and, if necessary, a bracket so they can reach and treat the cavity more easily.
Do I really need to keep seeing my dentist if my orthodontist checks my teeth regularly?
Yes. Your orthodontist checks your teeth during visits, but regular professional cleanings and exams for tooth decay and gum disease are still important.
What is decalcification, and how do dental visits help prevent it?
Decalcification is the loss of minerals from your tooth enamel, which can leave white spots on your teeth. Those white spots can be permanent and may signal weak areas that are vulnerable to tooth decay. The sooner you address them, the better. Your dentist can clean your teeth and may apply fluoride to help strengthen the enamel. They can also suggest better ways to clean your teeth at home to help reduce the risk of further decalcification.
Who do I call first if I have a dental problem while in braces, my dentist or my orthodontist?
If you have a dental problem such as a cavity or gum disease, call your dentist for an exam. They may be able to treat it without affecting your braces. If not, they can coordinate with us to have part of your braces removed so they can treat you properly. If the problem involves your braces, such as a loose or broken bracket, call us first. If you have severe pain, swelling, or a mouth injury, seek care right away. You can find more answers on our orthodontic FAQ page.
Braces Treatment in Rogers, AR
Seeing your dentist during braces treatment is just as important as keeping your orthodontist appointments. We’ll work with your dentist throughout your treatment to help you reach your smile goals.
If you want to see what braces or clear aligners can do for you, schedule a free consult with Smith & Davis Orthodontics in Rogers, AR. We also offer flexible financing options. Let us work with you and your dentist toward a healthy smile you love!
