The Timeline of Getting Braces: From Consultation to Removal

Did you know that 18% of adults think their smiles have kept them from getting job interviews? That’s why investing in straighter teeth is a critical step to boosting confidence and oral health. But if you haven’t been to a dentist in a while, you may be wondering what kind of time commitment braces require.

Read on to learn about the process of getting braces!

Start with a Braces Consultation

The full process of getting braces begins with a consultation. Your dentist may suggest an orthodontist, who specializes in treating teeth misalignments or jaw issues. Find a local orthodontist with strong referrals, expertise, and communication skills.

Your orthodontist will design a treatment plan, as well. For instance, you may have a severe overbite that requires metal brackets. But for a less severe correction, a more discrete aligner tray system may be possible.

Get Your Braces Attached

While the process of getting braces on may not be exciting, remember that it will yield a better smile! This visit may be longer since your orthodontist will clean your teeth to remove bacteria or debris first.

Then they will attach the brackets to your teeth using a safe adhesive. Next, wire will extend through those brackets, moving from one tooth to the next. Rubber bands, which attach to the brackets, will increase tension and force.

Finally, your orthodontist will provide instructions for cleaning your teeth. You will need to be careful to ensure that food pieces don’t get stuck between the brackets and wires.

You may be able to defray the cost of braces with dental insurance. Check to see if your employer offers it before going through the process of getting braces on.

Expect Routine Visits for Adjustments

The braces process also includes shorter visits for adjustments, usually on a monthly basis. Your orthodontist may tighten brackets or replace bands.

These visits may only last around 30 minutes. And the overall treatment program could be as short as 6 months or as long as several years.

Reveal Your New Smile

The process of getting braces removed can be an exciting piece of the journey. Your orthodontist will remove the bonding that holds the brackets to your teeth. After that, your orthodontist will clean any adhesive debris from your teeth.

Pursue Ongoing Maintenance

Maintaining that new and straighter smile is part of the braces process. In other words, getting your braces off is not the end of the journey.

Your orthodontist will create a retainer that’s customized to fit your new smile. This device may be made of plastic and wire, and you’ll need to wear it to keep your teeth from shifting. At your orthodontist’s direction, you may be able to shift to wearing the retainer only at night.

Explore the Process of Getting Braces

The process of getting braces may seem intimidating or time-consuming. But with routine checkups and adjustments, the investment of time and money can produce a straighter smile. Find a trusted orthodontist, ask questions, and follow their instructions.

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