The Process of Orthodontic Treatment

Embarking on an orthodontic adventure is no small feat, and is a decision that shouldn’t be made lightly, but we do advise making it, if it is needed. Well aligned teeth last longer, are easier to clean, look better, and fill us with confidence and improve our self-esteem. But the many unknowns and horror stories of what everyday life is like with braces scares some people away. Below is a step by step explanation of the process of getting braces, in order to dispel those fears and in hopes of getting more people, kids and adults alike, to start getting their braces on.

The proce​ss of orthodontic treatment

1)      Evaluate

Take a good look in the mirror, and smile at yourself. Do you like what you see? Are your teeth straight and even, and easy to clean, or are there some difficult nooks and crannies? If there are, then those teeth run the risk of tooth decay, and you should get orthodontic treatment, and if you don’t like your smile, you should definitely consider clearing up those teeth.

2)      Consult with an orthodontist

If you have made up your mind to get orthodontic treatment, you will then need to find an orthodontist. Book an initial consultation first, as this will give the orthodontist time to look at your teeth, become familiar with your medical history, and you can see what the person is like, if you would like to get orthodontic treatment from them, and the price can be negotiated at these sessions as well.

3)      Start treatment

After you have gotten your study model and have agreed on the price, it is time to start your orthodontic treatment. The braces will go on your teeth for the allotted time, and you will be seeing a whole lot more of your orthodontist than previously. You will be given instructions on how to clean your teeth, as it will be a little bit different now, and you will also be given a list of foods you cannot eat.

4)      Activation sessions

You will have to go back to your orthodontist every month for activation sessions; appointments in which the braces are tightened or set so as to initiate the next phase of treatment, gently guiding your teeth into the desired alignment. These sessions go on for the entirety of the treatment.

5)      Braces off

After the treatment time is up, and your teeth have been shifted into a more comfortable position, you will have the braces taken off. But this does not mean the end of treatment, only the end of the active phase.

6)      Retention

Your orthodontist will have made and handed over a retainer that you have to wear according to the orthodontist’s instructions. Some retainers are only worn at night, some need to be worn all the time, some need to be worn for six months or a year after treatment, and some need to be worn indefinitely. Follow the instructions and wear your retainer, or all of the treatment will have been for nothing.

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