Starting Braces 101: How Do They Put Braces On?
POsitively Awesome Ortho with Pachter Orthodontics
Thinking about joining the ortho club and want to know exactly what the process of getting braces looks like? Pachter Ortho is here to get you up to speed on starting braces treatment, how we pop those bad boys on, and what’s next on the orthodontic treatment plan. So buckle up as we dive into how traditional metal braces and clear braces are attached to teeth!
There are Some Dental Braces Pre-Reqs to Check Out
Oftentimes, patients won’t start orthodontic treatment on day one. A few essential tasks are on the agenda before your orthodontist will let you consider traditional braces, lingual braces, or clear aligners (the popular braces alternative).
Braces Consultation: From Treatment Options to Consent Forms
Every orthodontic debut starts with meeting your orthodontist and their crew. At Pachter Orthodontics, we bring you in for x-rays, digital scans, and an exam. This gives us a snapshot of your dental health history and ortho issues. We’ll chat about the best way to adjust your crooked teeth or bad bite. Are conventional braces best? Will Invisalign’s custom-made trays fit your needs? Do you even need braces? This meet-up is the foundation for creating a totally unique orthodontic care plan for your teeth!
Get Oral Health in Check with Your Dentist
To start treatment, patients need clean, cavity-free chompers! Gum disease and plaque buildup are a no-go, so we’ll make sure you take care of cavities and dental problems with your general dentist first. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene by visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings!
Make Sure Your Mouth is Game-Day Ready!
As the best orthodontists in town, we have a few tips for ensuring your braces placement is easy-breezy. Braces hurt a little bit after getting placed on your teeth, so take some over-the-counter pain medication before your appointment to reduce soreness afterwards. You can also bring orthodontic wax to protect your gums and cheeks while you get used to your new gear.
The Braces Process: Bonding Glue and Beyond!
Now for the treatment moment you’ve been waiting for—getting those braces on!
First things first: your orthodontist ensures all your teeth are squeaky clean and dry before attaching the brackets. Surface prep is essential for superb bracket bonding!
A special glue, which attaches all the brackets, is applied to your upper and lower teeth. One by one, small metal attachments are carefully placed on each tooth, and a special blue light is used to set the glue. Sometimes, the orthodontist will place stainless steel bands on the back teeth to help with tooth movement and anchoring the brackets and wires.
Last but not least, a thin metal archwire gets threaded through the brackets and secured to them with small rubber bands. You’ll also get to choose your rubber band look – it’s based on personal preferences. We love it when patients rock colorful elastic bands to fit their rad style!
What Happens After You Have Braces Put On?
So, you’ve got your new brackets and wires in place. What’s next?
- You might feel mild soreness as your teeth start their alignment journey, but it won’t last long. Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs in the beginning!
- We’ll provide guidelines for braces care, avoiding foods (RIP sticky foods!), and using new hygiene tools like floss threaders.
- Your journey isn’t over! Your treatment plan includes follow-up visits for necessary adjustments and to ensure your teeth are on the right track.
Schedule Your First Consultation for Ceramic Braces or Clear Aligners!
If you’re not stoked about your smile style, it’s time to talk to the Pachter crew about starting treatment. Get the lowdown on how braces or Invisalign can make your smile sparkle brighter than ever. Schedule your complimentary consultation with our Paramus or Middletown offices!
