The Orthodontic Process
If you are considering orthodontic treatment, the first step is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. During the consultation, the orthodontist will examine your teeth and talk to you about your goals for treatment. They’ll also discuss the different types of braces and aligners (ie. Invisalign) that are available, as well as which option might be best for you.
Orthodontic treatment can be a big investment, so it’s important to make sure you’re comfortable with your orthodontist and confident in their ability to give you the smile you’ve always wanted. If you have any questions about orthodontic treatment or want to learn more about what to expect during a consultation, feel free to contact our office. We’re always happy to help!
Initial appointment
At your consultation your orthodontist will take a look at your teeth and jaws to see what orthodontic treatment options are available to you. They will also assess your bite and how your teeth fit together. The goal of orthodontic treatment is to improve both the aesthetics of your teeth and the function of your bite. There are many different types of braces and aligners available, so your orthodontist will help you choose the option that is best for you.
During your orthodontic consultation, you can expect the orthodontist to:
- Examine your teeth and jaw
- Assess your bite
- Discuss your treatment goals
- Offer a treatment plan
- Answer any questions you have about orthodontic treatment
Getting appliance fitted and bonded
After your orthodontic consultation, the next step in your treatment will be to get your braces or Invisalign placed on your teeth. The orthodontist and their assistants will place your braces or Invisalign. This should take about 1 hour. After this they will show you how to properly wear and take care of your new orthodontic appliances.
Check-ups and adjustments
Orthodontic adjustments are necessary periodically throughout orthodontic treatment in order to move the teeth into their proper position. During these visits, your doctor will also check to make sure that the braces or Invisalign are functioning properly and that your teeth are healthy. These visits usually take 15-30 minutes.
Your Final Appointment
After your orthodontist has determined that your teeth have moved into correct position, he or she will initiate the process of removing your braces. Having them removed is far easier and quicker than placement. The entire process takes around 60 minutes and effectively removes any trace of the adhesive that was used to bond the braces/Invisalign to your teeth.
Fitting and Wearing Your Retainer
Once you’ve completed your orthodontic treatment, whether it’s braces or Invisalign, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your new smile looking great.
Wearing a retainer is an important part of orthodontic treatment. Without one, your teeth may begin to shift back into their original position. That’s why orthodontists always require patients to wear retainers for a certain period of time after treatment.
There are two main types of retainers:
- Removable Retainers
- Fixed Retainers
Removable retainers are made out of clear plastic, and can be taken out of your mouth. They are the most common type of retainer.
Fixed retainers are bonded to the back of your teeth and cannot be removed by you. They are usually only worn at night. However, some orthodontists may require patients to wear them 24 hours a day for the first few weeks after treatment.