How Are Braces Put On: What to Expect the Day You Get Braces On

A straight and confident smile is something you desire, and dental braces are often the solution of your choice if you have misaligned teeth. The process of getting braces can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re unsure about what to expect on the day they are put on. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how braces are put on and what you can expect during this exciting transformation journey.

1. Initial Consultation and Examination

Before braces are put on, your orthodontics dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and jaw. This initial consultation helps them assess the severity of your misalignment and plan the appropriate treatment. They will likely take X-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth to tailor a personalized treatment plan based on your dental condition.

2. Cleaning and Preparation

On the day of getting braces, your dentist will start by thoroughly cleaning your teeth. This ensures that no debris or bacteria are trapped under the brackets and wires once they are placed. Clean teeth provide a better surface for the adhesive to bond with, leading to more effective results.

3. Applying the Brackets

Brackets are small, square-shaped pieces made of metal or ceramic that are bonded to the front surface of each tooth using a special adhesive. Before applying the brackets, your dental professional will place a cheek retractor in your mouth to keep your teeth dry during the bonding process. This might feel a bit uncomfortable, but it’s a necessary step to ensure the adhesive properly adheres to your teeth.

The dentist will carefully place each bracket on its designated tooth. Once all the brackets are in place, a curing light will be used to activate the adhesive, bonding the brackets securely to your teeth.

4. Attaching the Archwire

After the brackets are in place, the next step is to attach the archwire. The archwire is the thin metal wire that runs through the brackets and applies gentle pressure to move your teeth into their desired positions over time. Your dentist will thread the archwire through the brackets, securing it with small elastic bands or other fastening mechanisms.

5. Adding Ligatures or Bands

Ligatures, also known as elastic bands or o-rings, are the colorful bands that hold the archwire in place within the brackets. These bands come in various colors, allowing you to add a personal touch to your braces. While they may seem like a fun accessory, their main function is to exert pressure on the teeth to facilitate movement.

6. Adjusting and Securing

Once the brackets, archwire, and ligatures are in place, your orthodontics dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that everything is properly aligned. They might use special pliers to bend the archwire or adjust the positioning of the brackets. This step is crucial for customising your treatment plan to suit your unique needs.

7. Aftercare Instructions

Before you leave the dentist’s office, they will provide you with thorough aftercare instructions. It’s important to follow these guidelines to maintain good oral hygiene and take care of your braces. You might receive recommendations for specific toothbrushes, floss threaders, and other tools to make cleaning your orthodontic appliances easier.

8. Adjustment Appointments

After the initial braces placement, you will need to visit your dental professional regularly for adjustment appointments. During these appointments, the dentist will make necessary changes to the archwire, replace ligatures, and monitor the progress of your treatment. These adjustments are essential for ensuring that your teeth are moving as planned and your treatment is on track.

Conclusion

The day you get braces on is the beginning of an exciting journey toward achieving a straighter smile and improved oral health. While the process may seem a bit overwhelming, understanding the steps involved can help alleviate any anxiety you might have.

The discomfort or soreness you might experience initially is temporary and a sign that your braces are working to shift your teeth into their new positions. With proper care, patience, and regular follow-up appointments, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

Contact Dentistry on Solent to Discuss

If you’re seeking the expertise of a skilled orthodontic dentist to find the most suitable braces for your needs, contact Dentistry of Solent. Our professionals are committed to providing personalised orthodontic solutions tailored to your unique dental requirements.

Our team combines state-of-the-art technology with a deep understanding of orthodontic techniques, ensuring that you receive the highest quality care. Whether you’re considering traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, or innovative Invisalign aligners, our expert orthodontic team is ready to guide you. Visit our bella vista dental clinic.