I'm getting braces put on in a few weeks, but I really want to get rid of plaque buildup and possibly a whitening before braces. Should I? Are whitening trays any good while wearing braces? Thanks for the advice!!
Answers (1)
From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
Looks like you have protrusion of the upper and lower jaws and proclined upper and lower front teeth that cause the strain of your lips. Usually braces can help. Some extractions may be needed to reduce proclination. See a good and experienced orthodontist for advise.
If you are having a simple extraction that does not require surgery to remove the tooth, then one week of healing should be enough time prior to braces being placed...as long as the extraction site heals well and is free of infection.
Your two front teeth (central incisors) should fit harmoniously with your lower lip (which they mostly do with the possible exception of the outside corners) and should be the same length as your canine teeth (which they are). By contouring the outside corners of your two central incisors the...