Are you tired of looking in the mirror and seeing crooked teeth? Maybe you’ve considered braces, but you’re hesitant to go ahead with the procedure.
For some, it can be scary to consider straightening their teeth. In your case, you probably have a bunch of questions and reservations.
But you should know there are different types of braces, and there’s nothing to be scared about. Some techniques vary among orthodontists. The process itself can be different for everyone. Keep reading for everything you need to know about having braces on crooked teeth.
Consultation With an Orthodontist
A consultation with an orthodontist is the first step in putting braces on crooked teeth. During the consultation, a comprehensive orthodontic examination is performed to check the overall health of the:
- mouth
- teeth
- jaw
The orthodontist may take X-Rays, and photos of the mouth and ask questions about the patient’s medical history. This information helps the orthodontist come up with an individualized treatment plan. After the consultation, the orthodontist will explain the plan and explain what braces will be needed to correct the patient’s crooked teeth.
It is important to follow the orthodontist’s instructions and listen carefully during the consultation as they will provide important information about the care of the braces and how to keep them functioning properly. With the help of an orthodontist and braces, crooked teeth can be corrected and properly aligned.
Understanding Treatment Options
Braces are composed of wire, metal brackets, and elastic bands. Brackets are usually bonded to the teeth and then connected to each other by the wire. The elastic bands are used to help move the teeth into the right position. There are several types of braces for adults or kids, such as:
- traditional metal
- clear ceramic
- invisible aligners
Braces can help close gaps, align teeth, and improve the appearance of one’s smile. Depending on the orthodontist and the needs of the patient, the treatment can take anywhere from nine months to a couple of years or longer. It is important to understand all treatment options available and to consult a professional about the best approach for one’s smile.
Customized Treatment Plan
Putting braces on crooked teeth is a complex process that requires a customized treatment plan. When braces are needed, patients should be evaluated by an orthodontist for the best course of action. Then after careful evaluation, the orthodontist will design a customized treatment plan.
A customized treatment plan for braces is a plan designed specifically to meet the needs of the individual patient. The customized plan should aim to reduce discomfort and any other patient concerns. Braces are then used to move the teeth in the desired direction, and the orthodontist will periodically monitor the progress.
The duration of the customized plan may vary from person to person, but they typically range between 9 to 18 months, with visits every 6 to 8 weeks to adjust the braces. The treatment plan for braces aims at providing the patient with a beautiful smile in a shorter amount of time than a standard plan.
Preparing Yourself for Braces
Preparing yourself for braces is important for the success of your orthodontic treatment. When braces are used to correct crooked teeth, it is necessary to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy beforehand.
This includes making sure to brush and floss regularly and keeping up with your routine dental visits. Additionally, you may need to modify your diet to prevent certain foods from damaging the braces, such as sugary drinks and sticky sweets. This is to help you be prepared for the same diet after you get your braces on.
Getting Braces On
On the day when your braces will be put on, it is important to remain calm during the process. When you arrive at the orthodontist’s office, you will be asked to fill out forms and read through materials to ensure that you understand the procedures for the braces.
Once you have agreed with everything, the orthodontist will begin to attach the braces to your teeth. You will experience some discomfort, but the orthodontist can provide numbing agents if necessary.
After the braces are in place, the orthodontist will provide instructions for proper care and how to clean your teeth with braces. Finally, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to ensure that the braces are properly placed and to check for any gum or tooth irritation caused by the braces.
Adjusting to Braces
When adjusting to braces, it is important to understand what to expect and do. Your teeth may be sore and gums tender for a few days after placement. To feel more comfortable, try using wax on the bracket, wire, or elastics that may be rubbing.
Make sure to have regular hygiene appointments, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash to avoid cavities and bacterial build-up. Complications such as mouth sores and broken wires may occur, so keep a lookout.
If any problem arises, contact your orthodontist right away so they can fix it. Make sure to follow the maintenance routine your orthodontist recommends. Eating the right food is important as well.
Try soft, sticky, and crunchy foods in between. Brush your teeth after every meal and change out headgear as often as needed. Have patience, as it will take time for your teeth to adjust. If you get overwhelmed, remind yourself of how worth it will be when your beautiful smile is revealed!
Regular Orthodontic Appointments
Regular orthodontic appointments are essential for the success of the braces treatment. During these appointments, the orthodontist makes sure that the braces are functioning properly and that the teeth are aligning correctly. This is done by making adjustments to the braces or adding more wires. This helps to ensure the correct spacing between the teeth is achieved.
The orthodontist will use X-rays to make sure the teeth are in the correct order and that the jawbone is healthy. If the braces are not managed properly, and appointments are missed, it could result in longer treatment times. This of which could lead to possible damage to the braces itself. Therefore, attending regular orthodontic appointments is vital for successfully achieving that perfect smile.
Know What to Expect When Putting Braces on Crooked Teeth
By following our patient’s complete guide to putting braces on crooked teeth, you can be on track to a straight and beautiful smile. With these steps in mind, all you have to do is make an appointment with the nearest orthodontic services to get the smile you have always wanted. Take the first step to getting braces today!
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