Three Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Orthodontic Treatment

You should not undergo orthodontic treatment without getting enough information. It is important to find an experienced dentist who can provide the care you need. When you visit the dentist for your consultation, ask questions about the procedure so you know what to expect and what is expected.

What are the available orthodontic treatment options?

This is a general question, but it provides an overview of the best treatment based on your needs, preferences, and willingness to comply. The dentist will provide different options depending on the issue at hand and review them with the patient. Ultimately, the choice lies in what the patient finds comfortable and will serve the desired purpose.

Braces are a popular option for straightening the teeth and realigning the bite, but some people may find metal braces unsightly. An alternative to consider is clear aligners like Invisalign. These aligners are preferred by patients who desire a discreet, transparent option that offers almost all the benefits of traditional braces. There are colored and clear braces as well, whose appearance is more appealing than the metallic type. The point is to discuss everything about the orthodontic device with the dentist before making a choice.

How long will the treatment take?

Patients need to be mentally prepared for the treatment, including the possibility of the treatment running for several months. Orthodontic treatment does not take forever, but obtaining the desired results and a well-aligned smile requires undergoing the procedure for as long as needed. The average duration for teeth straightening is between 12 to 18 months.

Patients need to ask the dentist this question so they can be mindful of the timeline. The estimated time is hardly precise, but it will be a close prediction. If the dentist discovers that the teeth or jaw are not moving as expected, the dentist will need to intervene to restore treatment progress. This means adequate monitoring through dental appointments. For those who have aligners, adhering to the minimum wear time can help ensure effective treatment. The dentist will also provide instructions to keep the treatment running smoothly.

What can one expect during the treatment?

This question is important and highly specific to the patient. The treatment options available are expected to produce the desired results, but the lifestyle adjustment and requirements will be different for each. The dentist will review the vital aspects, including diet, precautions, and oral hygiene routine. The expectations will be different for each treatment, as it is. In some cases, the dentist might recommend avoiding certain food types, being careful during sports, or when playing certain instruments.

The oral hygiene practices will change slightly because caring for the teeth during treatment is crucial for a good-looking smile when the procedure is finally over. The brushing and flossing routine will correspond to the type of orthodontic treatment. For braces, patients will need to pay more attention to the brackets and wires. Since aligners are removable, patients can clean their teeth as usual but need to learn how to care for the aligner trays.

Final note

If you have additional questions about orthodontic treatment, book an appointment with the dentist to get answers. They will be happy to offer insight.

Request an appointment here: https://www.gablesexceptionaldentistry.com or call Gables Exceptional Dentistry at (305) 203-4132 for an appointment in our Coral Gables office.

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