If you are preparing to get braces for your teeth, it's important to understand that there are some steps that must be completed before this can happen. There are more steps needed if you plan on getting traditional braces instead of invisible orthodontics; however, both types require preparation before an orthodontist can begin the actual process. Here are the steps that your orthodontist will need to take before you get your braces.

Take A Complete Set Of X-Rays And Impressions

X-rays are commonly used in dentistry, and they are vital with orthodontics. Orthodontists will typically want to take bite-wing x-rays as well as panoramic pictures. The orthodontist will use these for several purposes, which include the following:

• To determine if your teeth are healthy or if they need work, such as fillings for cavities
• To find out the condition and status of your jawbone
• To determine how your jawbone must shift to make your teeth look the best
• To find out what the main goals of the braces will be

Impressions are made with a putty-like material, and these are designed to also help the orthodontist understand your teeth and the work they will require. Your orthodontist may also take pictures of you from the front and the side to get a better idea of how your teeth and jaw look.

Evaluate The X-Rays And Impressions

With this information, your orthodontist will be able to develop a plan for fixing your teeth. In addition, this information will help the orthodontist determine whether you should choose traditional braces or invisible orthodontics.

Traditional braces can be helpful for almost any type of problem people have with their teeth; however, invisible braces have some limitations. If you really want invisible braces, your orthodontist will allow them as long as he or she feels they would effectively fix the problems you have with your teeth. Here are several conditions that might cause the orthodontist to recommend regular braces over invisible ones:

• Severe jaw deformities – If you were born with a facial deformity that caused your jaw to be severely misaligned, traditional braces might be a better option.
• Severe overbites – Invisible braces work great for straightening teeth, but they may not be able to reposition the jaw as well as traditional braces.
• Tipped teeth or gaps – If you have large gaps or teeth that are majorly tipped, traditional braces might be a better option.

Have Professional Cleaning Done For Your Teeth

A lot of orthodontists will recommend getting professional teeth-cleaning services before getting braces, especially if you are getting traditional braces. Because invisible braces are removable, your dental hygienist will be able to perform regular teeth-cleaning services. But with traditional braces, the hygienist must work around the brackets, and this can make it harder to thoroughly clean your teeth. If you decide to get traditional braces, having your teeth cleaned first is a great decision to make.

Fix All Dental Issues  

Finally, you will also need to get any dental work completed that needs to be done. This means that if you have a cavity, your orthodontist will want you to have it removed and filled before you get braces. If you need to have any teeth extracted, this too will need to be done first. By getting all of this done ahead of time, your orthodontist can focus on straightening your teeth and realigning your jaw, and he or she will not have to worry about other dental issues.

If you are interested in learning more about traditional braces or invisible systems, schedule an appointment with an orthodontist at a local clinic like Smile 312: Harvey Jay Mahler DDS. This is the best way to find out which option is best for you.