Information about the orthodontic treatments

The Initial Consultation

We offer free consultation for orthodontic treatment. During this appointment, details about the bite, development, growth, and other potential problems will be discussed as well as the cost/insurance information. A preliminary diagnosis and treatment plan will be proposed.

The x-rays and models of the teeth are necessary to make final decisions. However, the clinical exam should provide enough basic information to provide at least a preliminary diagnosis and treatment plan.

Bonding & Adjustment Appointments

Bonding braces is quite painless. It should take about 20 to 30 minutes. It starts with cleaning/polish the teeth. Cheek retractor was placed. Etch/bonding solution was placed on the teeth surface, brackets is then placed on teeth and a bright blue light is used to "cure" the glue. Once the braces have been placed, wires are attached into the braces with very small rubber bands (elastic ties).

Retention Phase

Retention is the period of time where the braces have been removed and the teeth are still relatively unstable. The ligament fiber attachments from the roots of the teeth to the bone surrounding the teeth have been stretched and moved during the braces. These fibers have a tendency to pull the teeth back into the position they were in prior to treatment. Over time, the fibers will reorganize, and the teeth will become stable. It is during this reorganization time that permanent and removable retainer appliances are recommended to maintain the alignment of the teeth until they are stable.

When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. Although our retention program only lasts 12 months, retainers must be worn for a lifetime to ensure tooth alignment is maintained. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.

Bonded Retainers
With few exceptions we typically glue a piece of wire behind the bottom front teeth. This ensures compliance is guaranteed. Unfortunately, a bonded retainer in the upper jaw does not work very often because of the way the lower teeth contact the back of the upper teeth. As a result, a removable retainer is normally prescribed to maintain alignment of the upper teeth.

Removable Retainers
A clear-removable retainer will serve as your upper retainer. It should be worn every night. You must be very careful when handling your upper retainer, as it is fragile and costly to replace. You are given a special case for your retainer; please make sure you keep it in this case when it is not being worn! To clean the retainer, brush it with toothpaste (sometimes with denture cleaner) using warm water. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far.

The Record Appointment

The records are a vitally important part of the treatment process. They will provide the orthodontist with much needed information about the patient to make an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Orthodontic records are usually comprised of the following:

Examination
Panoramic x-ray
Cephalometric x-ray
Facial and dental photographs
Impression or “molds” of the teeth
Wax bite registration