Many people think braces are just applied and then removed one day, but the reality is quite different. There are numerous steps and adjustments throughout the process as your teeth gradually shift into place. Today, Texas Family Orthodontics will give you some information on this treatment and let you know why regular adjustments of braces are important during your orthodontic treatment.
Two Types of Braces
Aside from removable clear aligners, there are two main types of braces: clear and metal.
- Clear braces are crafted from polycrystalline ceramic material, offering a nearly invisible look that blends well with natural teeth. They provide both functionality and aesthetics, making them a popular choice for adults who want a discreet alternative to metal braces but aren’t ready for clear aligners.
- Metal braces, with their durable metal brackets and traditional design, are a classic and highly effective option. They are generally more affordable and especially suitable for children, as their sturdiness makes them resilient to physical activities and other factors that could affect the appliance.
Why Should I Get Braces?
Each patient has factors specific to only them that influence their personalized treatment plan. At Texas Family Orthodontics, we take the following factors into account:
- Age: This affects both the treatment approach and how teeth and jaws respond to orthodontic care. Children often see quicker results due to more adaptable tissues, while adults might face more complex issues requiring a longer-term treatment.
- Severity of Orthodontic Problems: This determines the treatment’s duration and complexity and may also dictate the need for additional measures.
- Anatomical Variations: Differences in tooth size and shape, jaw positioning, and gingival tissue thickness affect how the treatment plan is created.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Issues like gum disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or systemic health problems may require coordinated care with other healthcare providers.
Making Adjustments
So, why does Dr. Vo need to make adjustments to your braces? There are many reasons!
- Continuous Pressure: As your teeth shift, the pressure from the wires and brackets diminishes. Since teeth move in response to consistent, gentle pressure, tightening the braces restores this pressure and encourages continued movement.
- Treatment Progress: Adjustments are made according to your treatment progress. Dr. Vo monitors the movement of your teeth at each adjustment appointment, referring to your custom treatment plan to guide the process properly.
- Addressing Issues: These visits with our team also allow us to address any issues, such as broken brackets or loose wires, ensuring that your treatment progresses smoothly.
- Preventing Prolonged Treatment: Regular adjustments are necessary to prevent delays in your treatment. By tightening the braces as needed, we help make sure that your treatment stays on schedule and doesn’t extend beyond the expected timeframe.
An Overview of the Process
Here’s a breakdown of the process for getting braces and how adjustments fit into the overall treatment:
- Initial Consultation: At your first visit, Dr. Vo will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, jaws, and overall oral health. We’ll discuss your treatment goals and preferences during this appointment.
- Imaging: We use x-rays, digital scans, and impressions to evaluate the alignment of your teeth and the positioning of your roots. While traditional impressions involve a putty-like material, many practices now use digital methods for greater accuracy.
- Treatment Planning: Based on our discussion and your medical history, your provider will develop a personalized treatment plan and explain it in detail.
- Fabrication: Once the plan is finalized, we send the information to a dental lab to create custom braces designed to fit your teeth.
- Application: At a separate appointment, we’ll apply your braces:
- Your teeth will be cleaned and dried to prepare for bonding.
- A special adhesive will be used to attach the brackets to the front of your teeth.
- Archwires will be threaded through the brackets and secured with small elastic bands, which can be clear or colored according to your preference.
- Adjustment Appointments: Throughout your treatment, you’ll have periodic visits to adjust the braces, such as changing the archwire or replacing ligatures.
- Monitoring Progress: We’ll regularly monitor your progress to ensure your teeth are shifting as planned. This may include periodic x-rays or scans to track movement and make necessary adjustments to your treatment.
- Braces Removal: When your teeth have reached their new positions, we’ll carefully remove the braces, including detaching the brackets and cleaning off any remaining adhesive.
- Retention Phase: After removing the braces, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions. We’ll provide detailed instructions on how to take care of your retainer and when to wear it.
- Follow-Up Appointments: We’ll schedule follow-up visits to check on the stability of your results and address any new concerns or questions you may have. Our team and Dr. Vo will continue to support you and guarantee the long-term success of your treatment.
One Step at a Time
Our team is dedicated to offering personalized care tailored to each patient’s specific needs. As experts in our field, we’re always excited to help our patients and help them get the smile they’ve been wishing for! For more information, please contact one of our two renowned offices in San Antonio or Windcrest offices!