Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. However, once the dental implant is placed in the jawbone, there’s still more work that needs to be done in order for you to have the best possible outcome. In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be necessary before or after dental implant surgery. But how do you know if and when it’s time for braces? Here’s what you need to know about getting braces after dental implant surgery.
What You Need to Know Before Getting Braces
Types of Braces Used
The type of braces used will depend on the dental implant surgery that you’ve had. For example, if you had dental implants placed in your lower jaw, it’s likely that traditional metal braces will be used to stabilize and align the teeth around the dental implants. On the other hand, if dental implants were placed in your upper jaw, invisible braces such as Invisalign may be more effective for aligning your teeth.
Reasons for Getting Braces After Dental Implant Surgery
In some cases, orthodontic treatment is necessary after dental implant surgery. This is usually done to stabilize the dental implants, close any gaps between teeth, and in some cases, correct an overbite or underbite. Basically, braces help ensure that dental implants remain properly aligned and positioned for the best possible dental outcome.
Length of Orthodontic Treatment
The amount of time that you’ll need to wear braces will depend on several factors such as the type of dental implant surgery that was performed and your individual dental needs. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to a year for orthodontic treatment with braces after dental implant surgery.
What Can You Expect During Orthodontic Treatment
Follow-Up Appointments
During orthodontic treatment with braces, you’ll need to follow up with your dental team regularly. These appointments will involve dental X-rays and physical examinations of the dental implant sites as well as adjustments to your dental implants and braces. You should expect to visit your dental office on a monthly basis while in orthodontic treatment.
Hygiene Care After Dental Implant Surgery
It’s also important that you practice good dental hygiene during orthodontic treatment. This means brushing and flossing at least twice daily, using dental products specifically for braces, avoiding certain foods that can damage the teeth, and rinsing with a dental rinse after meals. Your dental team can provide specific instructions for dental care during orthodontic treatment.
Pain Management During Orthodontic Treatment
In some cases, pain and sensitivity may be experienced while wearing braces following dental implant surgery. This is usually due to the pressure from the braces on the dental implants or surrounding teeth. The pain should subside as your teeth adjust to their new positions and your dental implants heal properly. Your dental team can provide tips for managing any discomfort you experience, as well as medications if needed.
Conclusion
Dental implants are an excellent way to restore missing teeth, but in some cases, orthodontic treatment may be necessary before or after dental implant surgery. Knowing when it’s time to get braces and what you can expect during orthodontic treatment will help ensure that your dental implants remain properly positioned for the best possible dental outcome.
FAQs
A1: Orthodontic treatment may be necessary in order to stabilize dental implants and correct any misalignments of the teeth surrounding the dental implants. Your dental team will determine if braces are needed following dental implant surgery.
A2: The amount of time you’ll need to wear braces depends on several factors, but usually it can take anywhere from six months to a year.
A3: In some cases, you may experience pain or sensitivity while wearing braces after dental implant surgery due to the pressure from the braces on the dental implants or surrounding teeth. Your dental team will provide tips for managing any discomfort and medications if needed.