Does My Pre-Existing Dental Work Mean I Can’t Wear Traditional Braces?

When you get braces as a child, you usually present the orthodontist with a blank canvas—newly erupted, perfect permanent teeth, just waiting to be aligned. But if you are a bit older, your canvas might already be a bit busy, with fillings, crowns, perhaps even a missing tooth. Can Dr. Quas, Dr. Wiater and Dr. Kang still work with that more complicated picture? Yes!

  • Fillings

Many of us have acquired a filling or two. Normally, an old filling shouldn’t interfere with new braces. Large fillings, however, might call for spacers. These small rubber bands are inserted between two teeth as needed to create enough room for bands and brackets, and are generally put in place a week or two before you get your braces. They frequently fall out on their own as the space between the teeth gets a bit wider.

  • Crowns

If you have had a root canal or any other dental treatment that left you with a crowned tooth, no need to be concerned. A special dental adhesive can be used to adhere brackets to crowns.

  • 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

Before you begin orthodontic work, talk to your dentist. If you need a filling or crown, are considering a dental implant, have symptoms of gum disease, or are looking at any other dental concerns, you should work with your dentist first. Healthy teeth and gums are the very best foundation for orthodontic treatment at any age.

If you are wondering whether Dr. Quas, Dr. Wiater and Dr. Kang can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, talk to us when you visit our Bend, Redmond, Prineville, La Pine or Sisters OR office! Your past dental work will be just one of the many variables we take into consideration when we’re planning your future of picture-perfect smiles.

doctor and happy patient

“I just really appreciate everyone here and the kindness you've shown to our girls. I know their parents would be so happy to know they get such great care. The doctors always go way out of their way to help us every time.”~ Allison

“We just love it here! The honesty is great. I love that we don't feel taken advantage of, which unfortunately we have been elsewhere. You have a great staff and we think the best of you! Keep up the good work. The doctors are always wonderful and never rushed, which I love!”~ The Goff Fmamily

“I may not have been to other orthodontists, but from what I hear from my friends and family, The Brace Place seems the best. Every time you walk in you are greeted with a smile, shich always starts your day off right. Couldn't ask for a better staff!”~ Diane E.

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