Every smile is unique and your orthodontic treatment will be personalized to your specific needs, however the process of getting braces is much the same for everyone. Here, our Langley orthodontist guides you step-by-step through the process of getting braces.
1. Book Your Initial Consultation with an Orthodontist
Getting a referral is generally the first step on the road to getting braces. Since most people visit their dentist on a fairly regular basis, your dentist is familiar with your dental health and can refer you to an orthodontist in your area.
If you don't have a family dentist, or just want to skip the referral step, you can book an orthodontist appointment yourself. Just contact the orthodontic clinic of your choice and request an appointment.
2. Attend Your First Appointment
During your initial consultation your orthodontist will examine your teeth, and take x-rays, to determine whether braces are right for you. There is a good chance that your orthodontist will also take impressions of your teeth during this appointment in order to begin planning your braces treatment.
3. Your Treatment Plan
Next, your orthodontist will create a personalized treatment plan for straightening your teeth. Your treatment will be tailored to your individual needs, and your braces will be created by using the impressions that were taken of your teeth at your first appointment.
4. Placing the Braces
Now treatment begins. It's time for your braces to be placed on your teeth. First your teeth will be cleaned and conditioned. Then they will be primed for the cement, and the brackets will be attached to your teeth. Finally, the wire is added into the brackets and the doors of the bracket will be closed to hold the wire in place.
5. Discussion of Oral Care
Your orthodontist will now explain some basics of bracket care, how to brush your teeth correctly, and which toothpaste to clean your braces and teeth with. Your orthodontist may also provide you with small brushes to use when cleaning between the wire and your teeth, which can help you to remove food particles and bacteria from around the brackets.
6. Adjustments & Checkups
Following this appointment, there is generally a period of 3 to 4 weeks before the first adjustment is done. Your orthodontist will insert a new wire into the brackets when you attend your adjustment appointment. At each adjustment appointment, your orthodontist will insert a slightly different wire to pull or push you teeth towards the desired position.
Throughout your orthodontic treatment, it's extra important to stay on top of your regular dental appointments. Cleaning your teeth thoroughly while you have braces can be difficult, but dental professionals are trained in cleaning around brackets and can help you to prevent tartar build up and tooth decay.