Creating Your Dazzling New Smile: How the Process of Orthodontics Works
A great smile can make a huge difference to how you feel about yourself, and while you may believe correcting your teeth is something that needs to be done when you’re a child, this is far from the case.
Orthodontic technology has advanced significantly in the last 20 years, and there are now many discrete, affordable options for adults. In this brief article, you’ll learn about the core steps involved from start to finish!
Your Initial Orthodontic Consultation
Your first step in this process is a consultation with an orthodontist – either in person or via telemedicine. The orthodontist will take a good look at your teeth to get a better understanding of their overall condition and alignment, and they’ll also inspect your jaw to see if there are any discrepancies there. They may then order an X-ray and possibly a Cone Beam CT scan to gain insight into your dental morphology (the variability in your anatomy).
From here, your orthodontist will discuss your goals and the treatment options available, and together, you’ll plot the route forward.
Braces and Clear Aligners
There are two primary methods of straightening someone’s teeth over time: traditional metal braces and clear aligners. Braces are permanently fixed to the teeth for a set period, and are manually adjusted at various intervals: they typically represent the fastest route, but understandably, many adults are uncomfortable about the prospect from an aesthetic perspective.
For this reason, clear aligners are much more popular: these comprise small acrylic trays that are virtually invisible, which are replaced with a newly adapted set every few weeks. They’re delivered to your door allowing you to straighten teeth at home without as many frequent orthodontist visits.
The Retention Phase
After a series of months (which will be longer or shorter depending on the extent of the tooth movements to be made), you’ll have a beautifully straight smile! The journey doesn’t end there, however.
Next comes the retention phase: you’ll have a specially designed retainer that you wear for several hours at night to keep your teeth in their final position. Without a retainer, your teeth would relapse into the position they were in before braces, so compliance with this step is extremely important.
Reaping the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Receiving orthodontic treatment has many other benefits beyond simply straightening your teeth for an improved appearance. Proper alignment reduces the risks of problems like gum disease and tooth decay, and with your teeth in a more appropriate position, there will be less stress on your jaw.
Orthodontic care is a fantastic investment not only in your appearance and mental health, but your overall health, too.
Wrapping Up
The prospect of starting orthodontic treatment can be overwhelming, so hopefully, you’re now clearer on the process and what’s involved. Know that it’s crucial to have patience; this is a long journey to embark on in many cases, but it’ll all be worth it the day your braces are removed or you finish your last tray of aligners. Good luck!
