1. Consult a dentist to develop a treatment plan. It is crucial to exercise caution when selecting a hospital and dentist. A reputable hospital and an experienced, responsible orthodontist are essential for successful orthodontic outcomes.
2. Imaging: X-rays of your teeth and skull are taken. This assesses your dental and skeletal development patterns to inform precise treatment planning.
4. Photographs: The orthodontist takes dental photos from multiple angles before treatment. These serve as a baseline for comparing your progress throughout the process.Extractions create space for crowded teeth to reposition, preparing for proper alignment. As teeth shift into place, the extraction gaps will close, signaling your treatment is nearing completion. If you have plaque buildup or cavities, our dentists will perform thorough scaling and fillings to ensure optimal oral health for extended brace wear.
6. Spacing: Sometimes spacing is done during tooth extraction, other times after. A spacer ring is placed between the upper and lower molars, typically needing about a week to work. This creates a small gap to accommodate the wire that secures your braces. Spacing can cause some soreness and weakness, and touching your upper and lower teeth together might hurt a bit!
7. Brace Placement: Braces are usually applied immediately after space creation. The first week may feel uncomfortable, but you'll gradually adjust. After placement, your dentist will advise against eating hard or sticky foods. Always brush promptly after meals to prevent food debris from causing bacterial growth and oral infections.
8. Follow-up Appointments: Typically scheduled monthly. Your dentist will adjust the timing based on your specific orthodontic progress. These visits primarily monitor alignment and adjust appliance tension. Consistent attendance is crucial for achieving optimal results.
9. Alignment and Stabilization: Closing gaps also involves adjusting the midline. Once gaps are closed and the midline is symmetrical, facial symmetry improves, enhancing your smile! However, don't rush to remove braces yet—teeth need additional stabilization time!