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The Various Orthodontic Treatment Phases

Are you looking for a straighter, healthier-looking smile? Orthodontic treatment may be the answer. Whether you’re considering traditional or clear braces, or Invisalign®, it’s important to understand the phases of orthodontic treatment that you will go through with your orthodontist in Killeen. From initial consultation and diagnostic records, to monitoring progress and retention, this article will take an in-depth look at the various phases of orthodontic treatment so you can make sure that your journey is as smooth and successful as possible.

Phase 1: Initial Consultation & Diagnostic Records

The first phase of orthodontic treatment begins with an initial consultation with an experienced orthodontist near me. During this initial visit, your orthodontist will perform a comprehensive assessment of your teeth and jaws to determine the best treatment plan for you. The most common diagnostic records taken during this first appointment include digital photographs, intraoral scans or impressions, x-rays, panoramic x-rays and cephalometric radiographs (headshots). Your orthodontist may also review any previous dental records that you have.

Phase 2: Treatment Planning

Once all the necessary diagnostic records have been obtained, your orthodontist will begin formulating a customized treatment plan just for you. This includes determining the type and duration of braces or aligners needed as well as scheduling regular appointments throughout the course of your treatment. Your orthodontist will also explain to you the expected outcomes and what steps you need to take in order to achieve them.

Phase 3: Appliance Placement

The third phase of orthodontic treatment is when the actual appliance (such as braces or Invisalign®) is placed on your teeth. During this appointment, your orthodontist will attach brackets to your teeth using a special dental adhesive and then connect the brackets with wires and elastics to create an archwire. This archwire will help move the teeth into their desired position over time.

Phase 4: Monitoring & Adjustments

Once the appliance has been placed, it’s important that you keep up with regular orthodontic appointments so your orthodontist can monitor the progress of your treatment. During these appointments, your orthodontist may make any necessary adjustments or replacements to ensure that everything is progressing as expected and that no issues are arising.

Phase 5: Retention & Follow-up Care

Once the desired goal of your orthodontic treatment has been achieved, it’s important that you keep up with a regular schedule of follow-up care to ensure that your teeth remain in their new positions. Your orthodontist will provide you with a custom retainer or aligners which you must wear regularly in order to maintain the results of your treatment.

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment can be a long and complicated process. However, understanding the various phases of treatment will help you make sure that your journey is as smooth and successful as possible. From initial consultation and diagnostic records to appliance placement, monitoring, adjustment and retention, each step must be taken in order for you to achieve your desired outcome.

FAQS

Q: What is the first phase of orthodontic treatment?

A: The first phase of orthodontic treatment begins with an initial consultation with an experienced orthodontist near me. During this initial visit, your orthodontist will perform a comprehensive assessment of your teeth and jaws to determine the best treatment plan for you. 

Q: How often do I need to visit my orthodontist during treatment?

A: It’s important that you keep up with regular orthodontic appointments so your orthodontist can monitor the progress of your treatment. During these appointments, your orthodontist may make any necessary adjustments or replacements to ensure that everything is progressing as expected and that no issues are arising.

Q: What happens after the desired goal of my orthodontic treatment has been achieved?

A: Once the desired goal of your orthodontic treatment has been achieved, it’s important that you keep up with a regular schedule of follow-up care to ensure that your teeth remain in their new positions. Your orthodontist will provide you with a custom retainer or aligners which you must wear regularly in order to maintain the results of your treatment.