Every missionary candidate needs to have a complete oral examination and corresponding form sections filled out by your dentist. All dental treatment, including active orthodontic treatment (braces), must be completed before a prospective missionary begins to serve. (Wearing a retainer appliance is not considered active treatment.) Have your dental examination early, perhaps as early as 6 months before you plan to go on your mission, to allow plenty of time to complete all dental treatment or your application may be delayed. The dentist will need to certify that you will be free of dental problems during the next two years (assuming proper oral hygiene is practiced). For many missionaries this means having wisdom teeth removed before going on a mission.