The Journey to a Straighter Smile: What Orthodontic Treatment is Like with Braces
Are you or a loved one about to embark on the exciting journey to a straighter, healthier smile with braces? While it’s natural to have questions and maybe a few concerns, understanding what orthodontic treatment with braces is like can help ease any apprehensions. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the stages of orthodontic treatment with traditional braces, so you know what to expect along the way.
Consultation and Evaluation:
Your orthodontic journey starts with a consultation with Dr. Davila, a dental specialist trained in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. During this initial appointment, your orthodontist will evaluate your teeth, bite, and overall oral health. They’ll discuss your treatment options and create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.
Getting Braces On:
Once you’ve decided to proceed with braces, the next step is getting them placed on your teeth. This appointment typically takes a couple of hours. An orthodontic assistant will thoroughly clean your teeth and then Dr. Davila will apply brackets to each tooth using a special adhesive. Afterward, they’ll thread wires through the brackets and secure them in place with small elastics or bands.
In some cases, we use a system called Indirect Bonding where Dr. Davila treatment plans your smile digitally, and an assistant bonds the brackets to your teeth using a custom made mold.3. Adjustment Period:
After the initial placement of braces, you’ll likely experience some discomfort or soreness for a few days. It’s normal as your mouth adjusts to the presence of braces. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax to soothe any irritated areas can be helpful during this period.
Regular Adjustments:
Using our remote monitoring system, Dental Monitoring, Dr. Davila will review your weekly scans to evaluate when your next visit needs to be scheduled. Brace wearers usually need to visit their orthodontist every 8-12 weeks for adjustments. During these appointments, your orthodontist will make necessary modifications to the wires and bands to ensure your teeth are moving in the desired direction.
Oral Hygiene and Diet:
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial when you have braces. Your orthodontist will provide instructions on how to brush and floss effectively with braces. Additionally, you’ll need to be mindful of your diet to avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can damage your braces.
Appearance and Confidence:
One of the common concerns about braces is how they might affect your appearance. While it may take some time to adjust, most people become accustomed to their braces and may even find ways to embrace their unique look. Remember that braces are a temporary part of your life, and the results will be worth it!
Duration of Treatment:
The length of time you’ll need to wear braces varies from person to person and depends on the complexity of your case. On average, orthodontic treatment with braces typically lasts between 18 months to 3 years. Your orthodontist will provide a more accurate estimate based on your individual needs.
Braces Removal and Retainers:
The day you’ve been waiting for will eventually arrive—the removal of your braces! Once your teeth have reached their desired positions, your orthodontic team will carefully remove the brackets and wires. You may then receive retainers, which help maintain your newly aligned smile. It’s essential to wear your retainers as instructed to prevent any regression of your teeth.
Enjoying Your New Smile:
With the braces off and your new smile revealed, you’ll likely feel a sense of accomplishment and confidence like never before. Dr. Davila will continue to monitor your progress and ensure your smile stays beautiful and healthy.
Orthodontic treatment with braces is a journey that may have its challenges, but the end result—a straight, healthy, and confident smile—is well worth it. Remember that your orthodontist is your partner throughout this process, and they are there to support you every step of the way. Embrace the experience, and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying the benefits of a lifetime of smiles.