Getting braces is a big decision that can improve your dental health and give you a beautiful, straight smile. However, the process of getting braces can seem daunting, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the process of getting braces with the help of a dentist in Tukwila, WA.
Consultation
An appointment with a dentist or orthodontist is the first thing to do when considering orthodontic treatment. During this appointment, your dental professional will examine your teeth and discuss your options for braces. They may take x-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth to create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Placement
Once your treatment plan is established, the next step is to have your braces placed. Your dentist or orthodontist will bond brackets to your teeth using a special adhesive and attach archwires to the brackets with elastic bands. This process is typically painless, although you may experience some mild discomfort or soreness in the first few days after placement.
Adjustments
After your braces are placed, you’ll need to visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly to have them adjusted. During these appointments, your dental professional will tighten the archwires and replace the elastic bands as needed, to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. You may experience some discomfort or pressure after each adjustment, but this should subside within a few days.
Oral hygiene
You should take extra care to brush and floss your teeth regularly while wearing braces. You’ll need to brush and floss your teeth carefully to avoid plaque buildup and gum disease. Your dentist or orthodontist may recommend using special tools such as interdental brushes or a water flosser to clean around your braces.
Dietary restrictions
While you have braces, you’ll need to be mindful of what you eat to avoid damaging your brackets and wires. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods should be avoided, as they can dislodge or break your braces. Your dental professional may also recommend cutting up hard foods such as apples or carrots into small pieces to make them easier to eat.
Duration
You may need to wear braces for a few months up to a few years, depending on how severe your dental problems are and what kind of treatment is necessary. Most people wear braces for one to three years, although some cases may require longer treatment.