What to Expect During Braces Treatment?

Braces are one of the oldest and most effective ways to get straighter teeth and a beautiful smile. Even with many modern orthodontic techniques and tools currently used in the field of orthodontics, good old braces continue to be one of the most popular and successful ways to not only straighten crooked teeth but also properly align upper and lower jaws as well. There are, however, many misconceptions when it comes to what to expect during and after getting braces. Many people expect it to be too painful and uncomfortable and miss out on the highly efficacious orthodontic benefits that they can get through braces treatment offered at a dentist's office near you.

Here is a brief yet complete step by step explanation of what you can expect during braces treatment provided by your dentist in Kissimmee. 

1. Consultation 

The first step of the process is your initial consultation. Once you visit the braces dentist near you, they will examine the current status of your mouth, teeth, and jaw and discuss your requirement with you. You can tell them your expectations and preferences when it comes to the final output that you expect at this point. The dentist will tell you the options available and decide on the correct treatment option that meets your needs and budget. 

2. Examination 

Once you decide on the treatment, you will have an appointment for the initial treatment procedures including a more thorough examination that often includes panoramic X-rays to make your braces fit perfectly in your mouth. 

3. Scaling and Polishing 

At this step, you will meet with a dental hygienist for necessary hygiene treatments such as scaling and polishing your teeth to ensure that the braces will be fitted on a clean and smooth surface. You might also receive a fluoride treatment in order to further strengthen your teeth and prepare for braces. 

4. Taking Dental Records

This is the step that consists of photographs and impressions of your teeth to make a custom set of braces for you. It will likely take about 30 minutes, and you will get instructions on the complete treatment plan. 

5. 3-D Imaging

This is an innovative modern technology to ensure that your treatment of braces in Kissimmee is done to the best of its ability, with high comfort and a perfect fit. It scans the dental impressions taken at the previous step to create an accurate 3D imaging of your teeth, which can be used to design and create custom made trays that fit well. Due to 3D imaging technology, braces have become more comfortable and the results have become quite efficient when compared to more traditional braces treatments performed decades ago. 

6. Fitting 

Now that all your pre-examinations are done and braces have been created, this is the step where your dentist perfectly positions your custom-made braces onto your teeth. Thin ligatures will be used to attach braces snuggly. You will get instructions on proper maintenance of braces, and good dental hygiene practices. 

7. Aftercare

To ensure that your braces treatment is progressing well, you will have to visit your dentist every 4-8 weeks. According to the progression, your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to the braces. Some ligatures will also have to be replaced due to damage or loosening. It is natural to feel some discomfort for about 3 days after an adjustment, but it will eventually cease given that you follow good maintenance practices in between each visit. The treatment time for braces usually take 12 to 36 months to see the desired results. Once the treatment is completed, your dentist will remove your braces and any attachments.