An orthodontist in St Albans evaluates your teeth through consultations and x-rays. Treatment alternatives include both conventional braces and clear aligners. It is a procedure that only requires months but results in confidence and improved oral health. Beyond improved appearance, straight teeth promote better oral health.
Crowded or twisted teeth pose difficulties for cleaning between teeth properly. Trapped food forms plaque and enhances the risk of a cavity. Misaligned bites may result in painful injuries to the jaw and headaches. Unequal pressure also causes more rapid wear of tooth enamel. Orthodontists are professionals who are involved in the process of aligning the teeth and remedying bite issues. In recent years, there has been an increase in the possible treatment alternatives to traditional metal braces.
Understanding What Happens Before the Orthodontist in St Albans Puts on Braces
Prior to the application of any braces, some significant preparation is done. A full examination of the teeth and gums is included in your first visit. The orthodontist in St Albans reviews your tooth position and overall oral health. X-rays show the roots of your teeth and jawbone structure. Such photos show any embedded teeth or jaw joint issues. In case of gum disease, it is treated, and then the braces are applied. Complex cases require patients to undergo cone beam scans.
The second visit is the time when diagnostic photos and detailed scans are taken in order to develop a specific treatment plan. Expanders before braces benefit some of the younger patients. In case the palate is not fused, expanders widen the jaw. This gives more space to the teeth without extracting them.
In case of any overcrowding, tooth extractions are conducted. Your regular dentist handles this procedure. Braces cannot be applied until two weeks after the extraction. The next thing will be a cleaning with your dentist. Separators are fitted approximately a week prior to the application of braces. These elastic bands provide room around the back teeth to fit anchor rings.
How Do Braces Work and What to Expect?
The day of the brace application has come. Pre-operative pain management prevents minor post-operative soreness. Your orthodontist removes separators first. There is careful cleaning and preparation of each tooth. Brackets are attached by dental glue to the front of all teeth. In the case of lingual braces, the brackets are stuck on the back side instead. The brackets are mounted using archwires.
Your orthodontist teaches proper brushing and flossing techniques with braces. Frequent adjustment sessions are done after every 4 to 8 weeks. Such appointments are used to slowly move the teeth into position by tightening the wires. The pain during adjustments is bearable with medication.
Choosing Between Invisalign and Traditional Braces
There is a discreet alternative of using clear aligners such as Invisalign. Aligners can be removed when you are eating or cleaning your teeth. Custom-fit ensures comfort throughout treatment. Mild to moderate misalignment responds well to clear aligners. Complex orthodontic cases still use traditional braces.
Adults tend to choose transparent aligners because of their looks. Young people and children usually prefer the traditional braces due to stability. After braces come off, retainers become essential. They do not allow teeth to go back to their previous positions.
Conclusion
An orthodontist in St Albans customises your treatment to match your needs and lifestyle. Orthodontics nowadays is pain-free and convenient. Make an appointment with us today and get more information about orthodontic treatment options.
