Do you or your child need braces? When do you know whether this correction is necessary or not? And what can patients expect when they visit the orthodontist? All these questions are of burning interest to patients. In this article, we would like to show you which examinations are necessary before braces are fitted.
Über die Autorin
Dr. Julia Steinmaier
Fachzahnärztin für Kieferorthopädie
Inhaberin von JUST KFO in Köln, gefragte Referentin und Autorin, die regelmäßig in Fachpublikationen und Medien auftritt.
Determining the need for treatment: the initial examination before braces
You can only find out whether braces are necessary or not from an orthodontist. The first step is always an initial examination to determine the need for treatment. First, the specialist dentist uses various examination methods to gain a precise overview of the teeth.
This is not only relevant in order to be able to say whether treatment is necessary. It is also essential in order to know what type of correction is advisable and what the teeth need in order for a malocclusion to be corrected.
Examinations for diagnostics before braces are fitted
In order for the orthodontist to determine whether braces are appropriate in the individual case, the jaw and teeth are thoroughly examined. Relevant factors are
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Tooth position
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Bite
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Function of the masticatory apparatus
The investigations carried out for this purpose are varied and comprehensive. We at JUST KFO analyze our patients' upper and lower jaws in detail before braces are fitted. This is how we lay the foundation for thorough and sensible treatment planning.
Impressions for dental models
First, impressions of the teeth are taken. These are important in order to produce dental models to detect any misalignments and to be able to adapt the braces individually to the teeth. However, we often do without the usual modeling clay and instead make digital impressions with an intraoral scanner.
Photos
Photographs are essential for the examination and documentation of the teeth and gums. These are also taken by us.
X-ray images
A total of two x-rays are taken before braces are fitted:
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the overview image (panoramic image or OPG)
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the lateral cephalometric radiograph (FRS or Ceph)
X-rays allow the attending physician to see in detail which areas are causing problems.
A three-dimensional X-ray image (DVT) may be necessary under certain circumstances, especially in adult patients.
Functional analysis
At JUST KFO , we specialize in orthodontic therapy that takes into account the temporomandibular joint situation and attach great importance to carrying out a functional analysis before treatment.
A functional analysis can be used in orthodontics to determine whether an incorrect bite is present. It may therefore be necessary to prescribe braces even for teeth that appear straight and correct. An incorrect bite can have a long-term negative effect on health.
What happens after the examinations?
Once these important examinations have been carried out by the orthodontist to determine the need for treatment, a treatment plan is drawn up. This includes the measures that will be taken to correct the existing malocclusion.
This plan is discussed with the patient or parents. In many cases, there are alternatives that are also presented at this stage. In this way, the best individual solution can be found, with which all parties feel completely comfortable.
This meeting also serves to clarify all the pricing details. This way you know what costs you will incur and the application can be submitted to your health insurance company promptly.
Preparation for fixed braces
When the patient arrives for their fixed braces appointment, a further examination is carried out before the braces are fitted. The teeth are also thoroughly cleaned again and specially prepared by applying a diluted acid. This ensures that the bonded brackets adhere well.
The brackets are glued on according to the treatment plan and the archwires are clamped in place. This orthodontic treatment takes around 1.5 hours. Depending on the complexity, it can of course take shorter or longer.
Conclusion
In order to make a correct and complete diagnosis, it is important to carry out a number of examinations before braces are fitted. These are also essential for the success of the treatment - after all, this is the only way for orthodontists to draw up a sensible treatment plan. At JUST KFO , we offer our patients individual and competent treatment for misaligned teeth.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about examinations before braces
How does the first appointment with the orthodontist work?
First, the teeth and jaw are thoroughly examined. The orthodontist gets an idea of the position of the teeth, the bite and the function of the chewing apparatus. On this basis, the next steps are discussed.
What are the requirements for braces?
Braces make sense if your teeth are misaligned. Both adults and children can be fitted with braces.
What is done before braces?
Immediately before braces are fitted, the orthodontist prepares the tooth surface with a special, diluted acid.
