The mandibular arch is taken first.

Which impression will you take first and why?

The lower impression is typically done first, followed by the upper. Because the impression has to get to the back of your mouth to get the back teeth, some patients think the alginate is going to slide down their throat. Don't worry – it won't. Orthodontic assistants take many impressions every day.

Why are alginate impressions taken?

Because alginate impression material reacts favorably to water, it produces accurate dental impressions even in the presence of saliva. An accurate impression of your teeth and gums will help your dentist recreate a model of your dental arch. This will then be used to customize the dental device.