Why does the practitioner need photos of the deformity in addition to the impressions?

Dental impressions already show a very precise picture of a tooth position or misalignment. However, other important factors play a role in planning which tooth movements should be performed on the way to a perfect smile. These include the height of the gums (gingival line), the periodontal condition of the teeth and the smile line.

If, for example, tartar is located behind the mandibular anterior teeth - where it particularly often settles due to the salivary gland - it is also not possible to take a precise impression, which would negatively influence the treatment result.

The photos, therefore, serve the respective practitioner as a control and support in treatment planning. The images are an essentially important factor in the orthodontic planning, which should not be dispensed with.