What to Expect When Getting Braces

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Before Getting Braces

Consultation:Your orthodontic journey begins with a consultation. During this appointment, your orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, jaws, and facial structure. This may include taking X-rays, photographs, and digital scans of your teeth to create a precise treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Discussion of Options: Based on the assessment, your orthodontist will discuss the types of braces that are suitable for you, whether traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or perhaps lingual braces. Each option has its advantages, and your choice may depend on your aesthetic preferences, budget, and the complexity of your case.

Treatment Plan and Cost: You will receive a detailed treatment plan that outlines the expected duration of treatment and a breakdown of costs. This is also the time to discuss any insurance coverage or payment plans available to help manage the financial aspects of your treatment.

The Day of Placement

Length of Appointment: Getting your braces placed typically takes about one to two hours. This session is longer than your regular adjustment appointments will be, as it involves placing each bracket meticulously.

The Placement Process:

1. Cleaning and Preparing Your Teeth: Your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and dried. A conditioner is applied to the front surfaces of your teeth to prepare them for the adhesive.
2. Applying the Brackets: Once prepared, an adhesive is applied to your teeth, and the brackets are set in precise positions. The adhesive is then cured with a special light to secure the brackets.
3. Attaching the Archwire: After all the brackets are in place, the orthodontist will insert the archwire through each bracket and secure it with elastic bands.

After Getting Braces

Initial Discomfort: It's normal to experience some discomfort and soreness in your teeth and gums as you adjust to your new braces. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this pain.

Eating Adjustments: You’ll need to adjust your diet to avoid foods that could damage your braces. Hard, sticky, and chewy foods should be avoided. Instead, opt for soft foods and cut larger items into smaller pieces.

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene becomes even more important with braces. You'll need to brush after every meal and use special tools like floss threaders and interdental brushes to clean around the brackets and wires.

Follow-Up Appointments: Regular appointments every 4 to 6 weeks will be necessary to adjust your braces and monitor progress. These visits are crucial to ensure your treatment is moving forward as planned.

Conclusion

Getting braces is a commitment to improving not just the appearance of your smile, but your overall dental health. For those in Dublin 6, Terenure Orthodontics offers expert care and a supportive environment to guide you through each step of your orthodontic treatment. Visit our Braces (Train Tracks) page for more information on the types of braces we offer and to see how we can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted.

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