Orthodontic treatment is a little different for everybody, however, the process of getting braces is typically identical for everyone. Today our orthodontists at SmileTown Orthodontics Braces & Invisalign break down the steps, so you know exactly what to expect when you get your braces.
1. Making Your Orthodontist Appointment
When patients get braces they are usually referred to us by their dentist, because people see their dentists more frequently. However, we don't require a dentist's referral. You can book your own orthodontic appointment by calling our orthodontists at SmileTown Orthodontics Braces & Invisalign.
2. Your Consultation
When you come to our office for the first time it will be for an initial consultation.
This consultation will include a full examination of your teeth, X-rays, and intraoral photos so the orthodontist can determine if you require braces.
3. Developing Your Treatment Plan
When your consultation is complete your orthodontist will develop a treatment plan customized to your specific oral health needs. Because everybody has a different mouth, your treatment must be created to get your desired outcome.
4. Planting the Braces
At your next appointment, your orthodontist will prepare your teeth for the braces by thoroughly cleaning and conditioning every tooth.
The first part of this process will include a deep clean of your teeth, so they can be primed for the cement. Then brackets are then cemented directly to your teeth, following the predetermined positions your orthodontist has mapped out.
After this, the wires will be set into the brackets and the doors will be shut to hold everything in place.
5. Discussing At-Home Oral Care
When your braces are planted, your orthodontist will break down the requirements for your at-home dental care routine, such as the process of brushing your teeth with braces, the proper toothpaste to use and bracket care. They may also provide you with a spindle brush to help you remove bacteria and particles from the wires and brackets around your teeth.
6. Adjusting Your Braces & Checkups
After the initial placement of your braces, there will be an 8 to 10 week period before your first adjustment.
At the adjustment, your orthodontist will place new wires on your brackets. The new wires might have a different composition or be slightly stronger to keep your teeth moving and to pull or push your teeth in a specific direction.
While you are wearing your braces it is very important to stay up to date with your routine dental cleanings and checkups because the braces can make it hard to clean your teeth properly on your own. Your dental hygienists and dentists have the skills and training needed to clean around the brackets and wires to help you maintain excellent oral health.