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Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental - Orthodontic Treatments
Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental - Orthodontic Treatments
Anyone who has an issue with crowded teeth, gaps, or open bites could benefit greatly from fixed braces, aligners or other orthodontic treatments.
Generally, people seek out these treatments on their own when they're unhappy with the appearance of their teeth.
However, you may also get referred to an orthodontist if your dentist has noted an issue with your bite, jaw, or teeth alignment.
When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there are three distinct phases: the planning phase, the active phase, and the retention phase.
In this article, we'll guide you through the entire process so that you know what to expect.
1. The Planning Phase
Initial Consultation
At the initial consultation, your orthodontist will inspect your teeth to determine the extent of your orthodontic issues.
They will also chat with you about any prior medical problems, your specific concerns, and what your dream smile looks like.
We offer free consultations where we can walk you through the various steps involved and answer all your questions.
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Graham Stagg - Orthodontic Treatments
X-Rays And Photographs
X-rays and photographs are typically taken at your planning phase so your orthodontist can get a better idea of your jaw and teeth alignment.
Once you have gone through the other phases, these images may also be used for your before-and-after pictures.
Creating A Treatment Plan
In your proposed treatment plan, your orthodontist will outline the timeframe for the treatment, what type of orthodontic appliance will be used, and details about the processes.
Payment plans will also be included to show you exactly how you can pay and over what period.
2. Active Treatment Phase
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Christina Ryan Testimonial - Orthodontic Treatments
Application
This is when the treatment begins! During the first part of the phase, you'll book a suitable date and time to have your braces applied to your teeth.
While the process isn't painful, you may experience a few unusual sensations when your teeth are cleaned and the materials used in the application may also have a strange taste.
The treatment time typically shouldn't take longer than 1 hour
In cases of severe overcrowding, you may need to prepare for braces by first having tooth extractions to make space for your other teeth to move into their new positions.
If you have gum disease, it will need to be addressed before orthodontic treatment begins.
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Sean Fitz's Smile Transformation
- 6 Month BracesFollow-Up Appointments
Once you've had your application session, you'll need to visit your orthodontist regularly so they can keep an eye on the movement and general health of your teeth.
While every orthodontist is different, we like to see our patients every six weeks or so.
However, this time frame can differ depending on how quickly the teeth are moving.
In these follow-up appointments, small adjustments may be made to your braces.
Lifestyle Changes
Now that you have braces or clear aligners, you may need to improve your oral hygiene by brushing and flossing properly.
If you have braces, you might need to avoid a few different types of foods, such as ice, hard sweets, and anything else that could damage the brackets and wires.
3. Removal and Retention Phase
Removal
Once your orthodontist is happy with the position of your teeth, they'll arrange an appointment to remove the braces.
They'll take photos of your realigned teeth and allow them some time to settle to ensure they are stable in their new positions.
The length of time you'll need to keep your braces on can range anywhere from 6 months to a few years and will depend on the severity of your orthodontic issues.
The removal session is typically painless and shouldn't take longer than 45 minutes.
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Dental Retainer
Retainers
Following orthodontic treatment, you'll need to wear a retainer.
Typically, you will start with a removable retainer that you wear day and night then a fixed wire retainer that sits behind your teeth to provide stability and a night time removable retainer.
It's very important to wear your retainer if you want to keep your teeth in proper alignment and enjoy your new smile for many years to come.
Your orthodontist will create a custom retainer specifically for your teeth.
If you lose it, contact your orthodontist immediately for a replacement to prevent teeth from shifting.
Conclusion
If you want beautiful, straight teeth, an orthodontic appliance is the best way to achieve your dream smile.
Here at 3Dental, we'd love to offer you a free initial consultation, during which we can discuss your concerns, examine your upper and lower teeth, and recommend the best treatment option for your needs.
Over the years, we've provided dozens of incredible smile transformations.
Feel free to contact us if you want any more information or to book an appointment.
Book Your Free Consultation With Our Orthodontic Team
Book Your Free Orthodontic Consultation)
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