So, you’ve decided to pursue a straighter smile or to take care of an imperfect bite. Apple Springs Family Dentistry is just the place to take care of all your orthodontic needs! We’ve laid out the steps of the orthodontic treatment process.
Step One
Your first step on your journey to a straighter smile is an initial orthodontic consultation. This is where we’ll evaluate your teeth to identify your needs and possible treatment options. Some patients are largely concerned with straightness and spacing, while others have more advanced matters that require more involved orthodontic treatment. Apple Springs Family Dentistry is equipped to correct a range of issues involving bite, crowding, spaces, and/or jaw position. The best part? Apple Springs Family Dentistry offers complimentary orthodontic consultations!
Step Two
Now you are ready to officially begin treatment! Since the preliminary diagnosis and treatment options have been discussed, the next appointment is usually for orthodontic records. We’ll take the necessary X-rays and impressions to visualize exactly what is going on in your mouth and with your bite to create a personalized treatment plan.
Records are essential to the orthodontic process, as they give us important information about the patient and their teeth to make an accurate diagnosis and help us to develop an appropriate method of treatment.
Step Three
Now that we have all the necessary information, this is when we discuss the treatment plan as well as an approximate timeframe. Depending on the kind of treatment you require, you will be able to pick between traditional braces and Invisalign. Apple Springs Family Dentistry provides both orthodontic treatment options.
Table of Contents
Option 1:
If you’ve chosen traditional braces, we will prep your teeth for bracket bonding, then carefully position each bracket on each tooth. This step usually takes about two hours. Don’t worry! It doesn’t hurt. Feel free to listen to music or enjoy Netflix on the TV in your treatment room.
Option 2:
If Invisalign is the treatment best for your needs, we’ll use the impressions of your teeth to create your first Invisalign aligners. Once your custom aligners are produced, you’ll come to our office to get them fitted.
Your aligners act as your “braces” and must be worn for 22-23 hours each day. They are usually changed every two weeks or so, as instructed by the doctor.
Step Four
You’ll come see us again every six to ten weeks for adjustment of your traditional braces or every four to six weeks for checkups during your Invisalign treatment. These appointments are key to orthodontic treatment as they allow us to check your progress.
Step Five
You’ve been attending your orthodontic check-ins, or wearing your aligners faithfully, you’re ready for the end of your orthodontic treatment!
Traditional Braces:
This is when we will remove all the orthodontic equipment from your mouth. Be sure to follow all instructions you are given, because these will help you prevent relapse. You certainly don’t want your teeth to move back to the way they were! You must be sure to wear your clear retainer as instructed to maintain your teeth position.
Invisalign Option:
With Invisalign, we’ll swap your aligners for retainers. It’s important that you follow instructions about wearing your retainer to avoid having your teeth slip back into their original position.
Do you still have questions? Your dream smile is within reach! Give us a call now for your free orthodontic consultation at Apple Springs Family Dentistry today!
