The Journey to a Straighter Smile: What to Expect

Embarking on the journey to a straighter smile is an exciting step toward improved confidence and oral health. Whether you're getting braces or clear aligners, knowing what to expect can help you feel prepared and motivated. Here’s a breakdown of the process from your first consultation to your final results.

Step 1: The Initial Consultation

Your orthodontic journey begins with an initial consultation. During this visit, your Dr. Sanders’ team take photos and X-rays, make digital impressions with an intraoral scanner.  Then Dr. Sanders will perform an exam, evaluate all the records, and discuss your treatment options. This is a great time to ask questions and express any concerns about braces or aligners. Based on your needs, Dr. Sanders will create a personalized treatment plan.

Step 2: Getting Your Braces or Aligners

If you choose to start treatment with braces, your teeth will be cleaned and prepared for the braces. Dr. Sanders will position and bond brackets to your teeth.  Once the braces are in place a wire will be attached to all the braces. The process is painless, though you might feel some pressure as everything is placed.

If you’ve chosen clear aligners, your teeth will be cleaned and prepared, then attachments will be placed on selected teeth. You’ll receive a set of custom trays designed to shift your teeth gradually. Your orthodontist will provide instructions on wearing and caring for them.

Step 3: Adjustments and Progress Checks

For braces, you’ll visit our office about every six weeks for adjustments. These appointments help ensure your teeth are moving correctly and allow for any necessary tweaks.

With clear aligners, you’ll change to a new aligner every week, with periodic check-ins to track your progress.

It’s normal to experience some soreness or tightness after adjustments or when switching to a new aligner. This usually subsides in a few days, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease discomfort.

Step 4: Reaching the Finish Line

Once your teeth have shifted into their ideal positions, it’s time to remove your braces. During this appointment, the brackets will be removed and excess adhesive will be polished from the teeth.  For aligners, your attachments will be removed. This is an exciting moment as you finally get to see your new smile in full!

Step 5: Retainers – The Key to Maintaining Your Results

After treatment, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth from relapsing to their pretreatment position. We will guide you on how often to wear it and how to care for it. Consistency is key to maintaining your results long-term.

Your Smile, Your Journey

Orthodontic treatment is a journey, but with the right mindset and care, it’s one that leads to a lifetime of benefits. Wherever your journey takes you, a confident, healthy smile is worth the effort.

Have questions about your orthodontic treatment? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your best smile!