Dental braces procedures and follow up
Whatever type of brace is used, the procedure is basically the same. The dental braces procedures are divided into different stages, which in turn are divided into over a number of visits to the clinics.
1. Preparatory visit and examination
The first step in an orthodontic treatment is that the patients either on their own initiative or through a referral go to a specialist orthodontic practice for a consultation. He or she will first be examined.
Depending on the results of the examination, the patient will receive information about what method is suitable, how the procedure is performed, how much it will cost and what results can be expected.
2. Beginning the treatment process
During the second visit, the treatment begins by taking an imprint of the teeth and x-ray. Based on these, a final treatment is provided. If a tooth needs to be extracted or other preparatory measures are needed, they will be initiated now.
Using invisalign teeth straightening, the patient’s aligner trays are ordered after step two. These are then collected at the clinic and patients begin the treatment on their own.
3. Installation and follow up
During the third visit, the dental braces are put in place and brackets are bonded to the teeth, a wire is fitted to the brackets and adjusted to keep the brace secured to the teeth. The entire visit takes between 1-3 hours, depending on which technique is used.
Over the next 6-24 months, short visits to the clinic for regular adjustments are necessary, and the wires are tightened about every 6–8 weeks.
Living with dental braces
Living with orthodontic braces does not have to be much different than before braces. However, you need to be careful with what you eat in terms of hard or chewy food, as it can cause damage to the brackets and wires, in worst case, brackets can become loose. The brackets will be re-glued and attached on your next regular visit.
During the first week before getting used to the dental braces, you may experience some tension in your teeth, pain or chafe at the inside of the mouth. However, it won’t last long.
Tooth brushing is extremely important when wearing dental braces. You should brush often and thoroughly.
Normally, you wear braces for 1-2 years and attend regular adjustments every sixth-eighth week. When your dental braces are removed, retainers are glued to the back of your teeth to keep your teeth in place and position.