Have you ever heard the expression which came first the
chicken or the egg? A similar question is often asked when patients begin the
process of braces, and know that they will require a tooth replacement in order
to achieve ideal results. What comes
first braces or dental implants? While
each orthodontic case is different, generally dental implants will be placed
after orthodontic treatment is completed.
Since dental implants are permanently placed in the bone and cannot be
moved, it is best to align the teeth in their proper location prior to placing
the implant. However, there are some cases in which a dental implant may be
placed prior to starting orthodontic treatment. Those cases are typically when
patients are missing teeth, and an implant would be used as an anchoring device
for the orthodontist. Communication
between the orthodontist and the general dentist is imperative during the
orthodontic treatment to ensure that proper room is made for the implant
placement. It is wise that the orthodontist and general dentist discuss the
treatment plan, along with the placing of an implant prior to the onset of any
treatment.
