Braces

What Do I Need to Do to Get Braces?

The beginning of your orthodontic treatment journey begins with your primary dental care provider. Your dentist will look at your teeth and review your dental health history in order to determine whether or not orthodontic treatment is right for you. If your dentist recommends that you pursue this type of treatment, you can rest assured that he or she will be with you every step of the way. Our team will develop a customized treatment plan that will be completed in as short a timeframe as possible.

How Are Braces Put On?

Orthodontic devices made out of metal and ceramic are put on in the same way. The teeth are first cleaned and dried. Then bonding glue is applied. Many patients report that the bonding glue tastes somewhat unpleasant. We can assure you that it is perfectly harmless. After the glue is placed, your dentist or orthodontist will then put the brackets onto the teeth. The archwires are then placed in between the brackets and secured firmly into place with rubber bands.

What Are the Different Types of Braces?

You may be surprised to learn that there are different types of braces available besides the traditional bracket-and-wire ones. While metal braces made out of brackets and wires are the most commonly utilized orthodontic treatment device, ceramic braces are also popular because they are made to blend seamlessly into the teeth. This means that your treatment device won’t be as noticeable to others. Invisible braces are another option that our patients can choose from. This type of treatment is devised of a system of clear plastic trays that slowly glide the teeth into the desired position. Our patients enjoy using these invisible trays because they are able to remove them whenever they are eating or drinking.

How Much Will I Pay for My Braces?

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies from patient to patient. The location where a patient lives, the complexity of the case, the materials used, the treatment method pursued, and the type of dental insurance a patient has all contribute to the amount of the bill. If you have dental insurance coverage, you should ask about whether or not your plan covers orthodontic treatment. In addition, you can talk to our staff about our payment options and financing options. These can help you to afford your treatment. Give our office a call if you’ve been asking, “How much do braces cost?” We will be happy to help you.

How Long Can I Expect It to Take for My Braces to Be Put On?

The exact amount of time that your procedure to have braces put on will last depends on how complex your case is. Most of our patients are able to have their devices put on within one to two hours. You may experience some slight soreness in your mouth afterwards. This soreness is usually gone within a week. However, if you are experiencing severe pain and can’t relieve it via the use of over-the-counter pain relievers, you should give us a call.

Why Do I Have to Wear a Retainer After Braces?

Most people have to wear their braces for between one and two years. After this period of time has passed, your dentist or orthodontist will take off the brackets and wires in a procedure that takes about one hour to complete. You may also be prescribed a custom-fitted retainer to wear every night when you go to bed. This retainer will hold the teeth in place and help to preserve the progress you made during the course of your treatment. You may need to wear this retainer for several years after you have completed your orthodontic treatment.

Now that you have learned the fundamentals of orthodontic treatment, you should call our office to schedule your consultation with one of our highly experienced dentists. Your consultation for braces in Annapolis will determine whether or not this treatment is right for you and what kind of orthodontic treatment would be the best option for you to pursue.