Braces in Stockbridge

What’s the Process for Getting Braces?

To get started with orthodontic treatment, you’ll meet with a braces dentist for a consultation. They can give you a general estimate of the treatment time and cost required to correct your dental issues. Once you officially move forward with getting your orthodontic appliance and have X-rays, dental impressions, and photographs taken of your teeth, you’ll receive a more precise cost and treatment plan. If you think you might be a candidate for orthodontic treatment, please call us to schedule a consultation today.

How Are Braces Attached?

Some orthodontic treatments use clear aligners that you can take out when you eat or brush and floss your teeth. Other types of corrective appliances use brackets that are glued to the teeth with dental-safe adhesive. The brackets hold the arch wire in place using elastic bands. During your orthodontic treatment, you’ll visit the dentist for regular adjustments of the arch wire, which gradually shifts your teeth into their desired alignment.

What Types of Braces Are There?

You have choices in both adult braces and braces for kids. Metal braces are the traditional option. If you’d like braces that blend in better with your teeth, ceramic braces are available. This type of orthodontic treatment uses ceramic brackets that match the color of your teeth. Invisible braces are also called lingual braces; they’re applied to the backs of the teeth and are hidden from view. Please visit our office for a consultation to learn more about the options that are available to you.

What Is a Typical Price for Braces?

One of the first questions that we hear from orthodontics patients is, “How much do braces cost?” The answer varies for each patient because it depends on their unique dental issues. The length of treatment, the extent of the problems needing correction, and the amount of preparatory work required will all affect the price. Another factor that impacts the cost is the type of braces that you get.

How Long Does It Take to Receive Braces?

Most people are excited and a little bit anxious about getting orthodontic treatment. A dentist usually takes about one to two hours to attach the brackets to the teeth, place and adjust your arch wires and secure the wire in place with an elastic band on each bracket. They also need time to clean and dry your teeth before gluing the brackets onto them. You’ll receive customized instructions for caring for your teeth while wearing your orthodontic appliances.

Who Needs to Wear a Retainer?

Most patients will need to wear retainers after their fixed orthodontic appliances have been taken off. The retainers might be wire or clear-tray style. You usually need to wear your retainers all through the day and night, taking them out before eating, brushing your teeth, and flossing. After a period of time, you might only need to wear your retainer at night. Every patient will receive individualized instructions from their dentist regarding aftercare. It’s very important to wear your retainers as recommended so that you maintain the new alignment of your teeth.