Imagine biting into a crisp apple or flashing a confident smile during a job interview. For most people, these simple actions are taken for granted. However, for a staggering number of people, such everyday activities can be challenging or even impossible due to missing teeth. 

It's startling that over 178 million people in the United States are grappling with tooth loss, according to the American Dental Association. This condition can affect not only the ability to eat and speak but also their self-esteem and overall quality of life. 

As a result, many turn to restorative dentistry, hoping to reclaim the function of their mouth and the aesthetics of their smile. What may come as a surprise to some is that the path to a fully restored set of teeth isn't always straightforward. In fact, a large number of patients find themselves needing orthodontic preparation before they can proceed with their desired restorative procedures, paving the way for a more successful and enduring outcome.

Read on to learn how orthodontics can help prepare your mouth for pre-prosthetic surgery and where to find the best adjunctive orthodontic therapy in Beverly Hills. 

What is Pre-Prosthetic Surgery? 

Pre-prosthetic surgery refers to a range of dental procedures that are performed to prepare the mouth for prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth — such as full dentures, partial dentures, dental bridges, or dental implants. These surgical procedures aim to create an optimal environment for the placement and function of artificial teeth. 

Common pre-prosthetic procedures include: 

  • Pre-prosthetic procedure bone grafting to increase jaw density
  • Removal of excess gum or bone tissue
  • Reshaping of the alveolar ridge for dental implants
  • Extraction of problematic teeth, such as second or third molars

Pre-prosthetic surgery aims to ensure a proper fit, enhance stability, and improve the overall success rate of the dental prosthetic treatment. By addressing potential issues beforehand, pre-prosthetic surgery helps to create a more comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing outcome for patients receiving dental prosthetics.

Why is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary Before Pre-Prosthetic Surgery? 

Orthodontic treatment is often necessary before pre-prosthetic surgery to create an optimal foundation for dental prosthetics. This initial phase helps align teeth, correct bite issues, and create proper spacing in the mouth. 

By addressing these factors, orthodontics ensures that future prosthetics will fit correctly, function effectively, and blend seamlessly with the patient's natural teeth. Additionally, this treatment can improve overall oral health by making teeth easier to clean and reducing stress on the jaw joints. 

Common orthodontic treatments for pre-prosthetic surgery include:

  • Orthodontic appliances like palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw
  • Traditional metal braces or clear aligners to move teeth into better positions 
  • Fixed and removable clear aligner retainers to keep teeth in place 
  • Elastics to keep bite aligned 

Ultimately, orthodontic preparation increases the likelihood of successful, long-lasting prosthetics — enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of the final restoration.

How to Know if You Need Pre-Prosthetic Orthodontics

Determining if you need pre-prosthetic orthodontics depends on various factors, including your current dental health and the complexity of your restorative dentistry needs. Common indicators include:

  • Misaligned upper and lower teeth
  • Bite issues, such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite
  • Teeth crowding
  • Gaps in your teeth could interfere with the placement or function of the prosthetics
  • Dental issues such as severe tooth decay, gum disease, or jaw bone loss 

Additionally, if you're experiencing difficulty chewing, speaking, or maintaining proper oral hygiene due to the positioning of your teeth, this may also suggest a need for orthodontic preparation. Ultimately, a comprehensive evaluation by an experienced orthodontist is the most reliable way to determine if pre-prosthetic orthodontics is necessary for your specific case and overall dental health goals.

Where to Find the Best Adjunctive Orthodontic Therapy in Beverly Hills

Orthodontic treatment plays an essential role in preparing patients for pre-prosthetic surgery, working to ensure the most optimal outcomes for those seeking to restore their smile and oral function. However, the expertise of a skilled orthodontist knowledgeable in cosmetic and restorative dentistry is invaluable.

At West LA Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on offering personalized care and state-of-the-art treatment options to ensure the best preparation for pre-prosthetic surgery. Dr. J and our expert team are committed to creating customized treatment plans that address individual needs and set the foundation for successful prosthetic placement, resulting in functional, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing smiles.

Ready to start your journey toward a bright and confident smile with pre-prosthetic orthodontics from the best orthodontists in Beverly Hills?