Why Do Braces Brackets Need to Be Removed when Doing an Implant Impression?

My implant dentist insists on my braces brackets next to the empty space awaiting the crown be removed but my orthodontist insists the opposite because of the possibility of my teeth shifting within the time it takes the impression to be made. What are your opinions. I agree with my orthodontist in not wanting to remove the brackets to help hold the space. The space is being held by wire & spring between the two brackets. Thank you,

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by Katie D in NYC

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I agree with the orthodontist the space needs to be maintained exactly.

The wire will definitely need to be removed prior to the impression, however, if you can have the brackets removed in the morning, for your dentist to get his impression, and have the brackets rebonded the same day that will be fine. Removing the brackets on the adjacent teeth will only help facilitate the removal of your crown impression. The impression material can be quite rigid and very difficult to remove with brackets remaining on the teeth. The other method, is remove... more

Dental impressions can tear when braces are present

If the orthodontics are complete, then the brackets should come off anyway. If they are not complete, I suggest not dealing with the implant until the orthodontics is complete. Brackets from braces will either tear the impression material or come off when the tray comes out. This material is different than the alginate that most orthodontists use. In MY office, I would suggest braces removal, final retainer created (essix or hawley) and implant impression taken... more