A dental checkup is an important step before seeing an orthodontist in the UK. It allows the dentist to identify any existing dental issues and helps maintain good oral health. If left untreated, these problems can become more difficult to treat in the future, so it's best to address them early or, if possible, prevent them altogether. Treatment won't begin until you have a good level of oral hygiene, as orthodontic treatment can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
In 2000, a survey of dentists in New York found that three-quarters of them recommended six-monthly checkups, even though there were no studies to show whether this frequency of visits made a difference for patients with a low risk of tooth decay or gum disease. Today, many organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry still suggest six-monthly checkups.
