When it comes to orthodontic treatment in Central Florida, there’s no “one size fits all!”
Metal braces are the most common form of orthodontic treatment in Florida. Millions of people use them every year, including about one million adults. But not everyone needs braces for orthodontic health. It’s common to see clear plastic aligners or other forms of care, too.
With that in mind, everybody’s experience is a little bit different.
No matter if you’re an adult who has had untreated orthodontic issues your whole life or you’re a parent who wants your child to have a healthy and beautiful smile, it’s never too late or too early to get started with the best orthodontic care. Let’s take a closer look at exactly how that works!
What Happens After Your First Orthodontic Treatment in Florida
No matter what kind of treatment you need, Dr. Beauchamp will give you a world-class experience. Alongside her caring and compassionate staff, Dr. Beauchamp is dedicated to creating a family orthodontist office where you’ll feel at ease. Every patient hears about their treatment options and exactly what will happen.
Yes, that includes kids – Dr. Beauchamp is great at explaining without talking down to younger patients.
Your first orthodontic treatment may take as little as about 90 minutes for a consultation and same-day braces or may be a little bit longer in certain cases. Every form of treatment means the patient will need to have a few follow-up appointments, but how many and when they are scheduled depends on the specific details.
Let’s look at three common scenarios for what could happen after your first orthodontic treatment:
1. Children Finishing Up Phase-One Orthodontic Treatment
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is the most effective way for young children to enjoy the benefits of getting an early start in orthodontic care. The first phase can start as early as six years of age when orthodontists can evaluate the mouth and determine if there is sufficient space for the adult teeth.
Most children getting phase-one orthodontic treatment are somewhere between the ages of eight and ten. During “Phase 1,” expanders are used to widen the patient’s upper jaw. A child’s soft palate is still highly malleable, and this process does not produce any discomfort.
When Phase 1 is complete, the Rapid Palate Expander is removed by detaching it from the upper teeth. By that point, the palate has already expanded significantly. That means there will be more room for permanent teeth. Ideally, there might be no crowding of the permanent teeth at all!
Phase 2 treatment starts after the permanent teeth begin to erupt. Dr. Beauchamp will take images of the teeth and make sure they are on track to erupt safely, without becoming impacted (for example, turning sideways). If necessary, Phase 2 includes the use of metal braces so the permanent teeth can all be straight and healthy.
After phase-one treatment, it’s a good idea to get kids ready for the idea of metal braces. Their next major appointment will include cleaning their teeth, preparing the surfaces for braces, and applying the braces.
With special perks like small form factor braces and colored bands in your child’s favorite colors, Dr. Beauchamp makes it fun and easy for kids to jump right into the second phase of treatment. By starting early, they are more likely to see the results of treatment faster than older teens and adults!
2. An Adult with Invisalign® Clear Plastic Aligners
Adults love Invisalign®! Known as the “clear alternative” to regular braces, Invisalign® has been in use for decades. Millions of people all around the world have used it effectively. While some responsible older teens qualify, adults make up the majority of Invisalign® patients.
Invisalign® treatment starts with creating an impression of your mouth. This is done with sophisticated digital imaging or, sometimes, with dental putty. Your very own pair of clear plastic spacers is made via this imprint. From there, you’ll have to wear them more than 20 hours a day, every day, for treatment.
Over time, plastic aligners move your teeth to the treated position while using less pressure than braces. They are suitable for the majority of orthodontic issues, but the most serious orthodontic problems still use braces. During follow-up visits, Dr. Beauchamp verifies that your treatment is really on track.
When an adult’s teeth reach the treated position, they have a final follow-up appointment where their progress is confirmed. They’ll no longer need to use the aligners, and they discuss the next steps with Dr. Beauchamp. In most cases, adults who’ve completed their course of treatment will then switch to using retainers.
Retainers are orthodontic appliances used to ensure that teeth remain in their desired position and don’t slowly “migrate” back to where they were. Orthodontic retainers come in a few different kinds. Adults and most teens can choose between permanent retainers and removable ones to keep their teeth looking terrific.
3. Anyone After Traditional Braces
Adults and teens can benefit from braces – and sometimes, they’re the only option for completely treating the most severe tooth gaps and misalignment. Generally speaking, the earlier you get started, the sooner you will see wonderful results in the mirror. But what happens afterward?
When you’ve finished your course of treatment with braces, the first step is to get them removed. This takes about an hour with Dr. Beauchamp. Like putting braces in, taking them out might lead to a few days where your mouth feels a little sore or “weird.” This shouldn’t include any bleeding, and it should go away within a week.
Just like most people who use clear plastic aligners, those who are finishing up with their braces will probably transition to retainers. Why “probably”? Some younger patients might never need retainers, but they are rare. Dr. Beauchamp will monitor your teeth for a while to help you make a decision.
Retainers can be permanently bonded to the teeth or they can be removable. Some people find it easier to keep them clean after being removed, while others feel that the convenience of a permanent solution is best. Either way, your teeth get the support they need.
For Your First Orthodontic Treatment, Trust the Family Orthodontics Experts at Beauchamp Orthodontics
No matter what kind of orthodontic treatment would be best for you, Dr. Beauchamp is here to make it easier. We streamline the process so you’re never left waiting around for care – but at the same time, you receive all the personal attention you need to get your questions answered and enjoy the best care outcomes.
If you want to learn more about orthodontic care in Central Florida, we will be glad to help you. We welcome you to schedule a complimentary consultation online. You can discuss your needs directly with Dr. Beauchamp and will never be pressured to make a decision. If you choose to go forward with care, we can start right away.
To begin, schedule your free consultation today. We look forward to meeting you!
