Deciding to get orthodontic treatment like braces or clear aligners is a big commitment and financial investment. After all, an orthodontic treatment process can take anywhere from one to two years or longer to properly move the teeth and jaw into the correct places and cost up to a few thousand dollars.
Before you jump right into orthodontic treatments, you should know exactly what you’re signing up for. While each orthodontist may add a bit of their own personal touch to the experience, there’s a standard general process you will encounter. Keep reading to learn what to expect from your orthodontic journey, then schedule an appointment at Rio Grande Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics to get started.
Consultation and examination
The very first thing your orthodontist will do is conduct a consultation and braces assessment, where they will examine your teeth and jaw and discuss which options are available to you. You’ll talk about any concerns you may have, the pros and cons of each treatment type, and what your treatment timeline could look like.
The orthodontist will also have you do X-rays during this visit so they can have a complete look at your teeth and jaws, which will help them determine your orthodontic needs.
After your orthodontic evaluation, you’ll discuss your treatment plan and start scheduling future appointments. This is also a good opportunity to discuss financial plans with the staff.
Pre-treatment steps
There are a handful of things that need or may need to be done before the actual treatment begins. If overcrowding of teeth is an issue, the orthodontist may recommend expanders as a first step to widen the jaw. This is most common in younger children whose palates still haven’t fused
If you or your child are getting traditional braces, separators will need to be applied about a week or so before the braces are installed. Separators are rubber bands placed around your back teeth to make room for the braces’ metal rings to be placed around them.
Other preliminary treatments could be required based on any dental issues or oral health concerns. These include teeth cleanings, fillings, root canals, gum disease treatment, or — in cases of severe overcrowding—extractions.
Fittings
For patients getting braces, fittings will begin with brackets being placed on your teeth. For clear aligners, your orthodontist will help fit and adjust the trays when you receive your first set. This is typically when treatment begins, but some orthodontists may choose to take dental impressions of your mouth to help make and fit your equipment.
Routine appointments
From there, you’ll need to visit your orthodontist once every several weeks to have your wires or trays adjusted as your teeth and jaw begin to move into place. Depending on the method of treatment you choose and the severity of orthodontic issues, this could last around one to two years.
Once your teeth are aligned and the braces have been removed, or your aligners are no longer needed, you will have to wear a retainer. Your orthodontist may tell you it only needs to be worn at night, or they may instruct you to wear it at all times for a certain period. Following these instructions is a crucial part of orthodontic care, as retainers help maintain your teeth’s new alignment.
Are you ready to get started?
Rio Grande Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to give you and your family the best orthodontic experience possible, from easy booking to multiple financial options that keep oral care accessible. Begin your orthodontic journey with us today, and book a consultation.
