If you or your child would benefit from braces, you may want to schedule an initial appointment with an orthodontist. You or your child may have the following symptoms:
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Dental bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite)
Many patients feel uncertain about their first appointment with an orthodontist and want to know what will happen. This blog provides an outline of your first appointment and explains the best ways to prepare.
Scheduling a Consultation
The first step is scheduling a consultation with a trusted provider. Your family dentist may work with a specific provider, or you may want to research and find your orthodontist independently.
Preparing For Your Orthodontist Appointment
Assemble a list of questions for your orthodontic provider. You will want to know how long they expect treatment to last, how frequent your appointments will be, any dietary restrictions you need to follow, and the various treatment steps.
The provider’s qualifications you should keep in mind include the following:
- Experience treating children and adults
- Activity in local and national professional organizations
- Breadth and scope of available procedures
- Strong connections with the community
Your First Appointment
During your first appointment, your provider will discuss your medical and dental history. They will want to know as much as you can provide about your oral and general health.
Next, your orthodontist will take digital impressions of your teeth, using these to determine your needs. Your orthodontist will let you know what type of treatment you or your child would find the most beneficial, from Invisalign to standard metal braces.
Finally, your orthodontist will design and install your appliances to provide the best possible results.
Tips to Help Your Orthodontic Treatment Run Smoothly
- Keep all scheduled dental and orthodontic appointments
- Follow all recommendations, including wearing your clear aligners daily or changing braces elastics when necessary
- Keep your teeth as clean as possible using robust hygiene practices
- If your braces break or lose a part, contact your orthodontist immediately for repairs
Braces Can Change Your Life
If you or your child feel uncomfortable with your smile, braces can improve your self-image and boost your confidence. With a straight, brilliant smile, you will have a better attitude and want to show your smile to the world.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How long do braces take?
On average, braces take about 18 months to 3 years to complete. However, many patients experience shorter treatment times, especially if they need less extensive correction.
Are braces uncomfortable?
After you have become accustomed to wearing braces, the appliances will not be uncomfortable. You may experience some minor discomfort when your orthodontist adjusts your braces, but this should be short-lived.
Call Greater Hartford Orthodontics
Getting braces can improve your oral health and your self-confidence. If you want to know more about braces and how they can help you or your child, please call our office at 860-667-8277. We will gladly answer your questions.