The Complete Braces Process: What to Expect When You’re Looking for Braces

Braces are designed to realign teeth that are crooked or just don’t come in right. If you have a slight overbite or underbite, braces can also help to correct this. The braces process can be long, but it’s easy once you get started. Let’s walk through the braces procedure, so you know what to expect at your appointments and day-to-day activities.

The Complete Braces Process: What to Expect

Step 1: Consultation

Visit to your dentist or orthodontist. Your professional will examine your teeth to ensure they’re healthy enough for braces, and that braces will be a good option for you. This is a good time to ask about other braces options, such as invisible alignment trays, like Invisalign. At this time, your dentist or orthodontist can also tell you about expenses and payment plans.

Step 2: Getting Your Braces On

Actually getting your braces put on will take the most time. There are several steps involved in this process. First, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth. Then, your dentist will condition your teeth, so that the braces’ brackets will stick properly. Using dental cement, your dentist will place the brackets on your teeth, and then place the wire. The wire will be properly fitted to the brackets, so it will push or pull teeth gently in the right direction. With this process completed, your braces are fitted!

Step 3: Care Instructions

At this visit, your dentist or orthodontist will also provide you with care instructions. This way, you’ll know how to keep your teeth and your braces safe and secure. Your dentist will tell you how to properly clean your teeth and braces, as well as what foods to avoid.

Step 4: Regular Appointments

Braces are designed to slowly realign your teeth and jaw. To accomplish this, you’ll have to revisit your dentist every three to four weeks for readjustment. This will help to maintain tension across the wire of the braces, so teeth continue to shift in the right direction. At these appointments, your dentist can also check on the health of your teeth and make sure your mouth is healthy.

Step 5: Removal

Some people can have braces removed in about a year. For others it might take two years or more. Your dentist will tell you what to expect at your first appointment. Once your teeth and jaw are aligned, your braces can be removed. Your dentist will carefully remove the wire, then the brackets bonded to your teeth. You can see your beautiful new smile for the first time!

Step 6: After-Care

To keep your teeth in alignment, your dentist will have you fitted for a retainer. First, your dentist will take a mold of your teeth, so your retainer will fit exactly. Then you’ll receive your retainer once it’s’ complete. This will help to prevent your teeth from shifting out of alignment again. Don’t worry, you’ll only have to wear this at night.

The process behind braces is lengthy, but the results are well worth it. You’ll enjoy a straight, beautiful smile for the rest of your life. If metal braces aren’t for you, keep in mind that there are many braces options available, including invisible braces. Make an appointment with a dentist in Las Vegas today to learn more.