Braces are an important part of orthodontic health for patients of all ages. Anyone can benefit, but they are most effective when orthodontic care starts at an early age. Kids get faster results and usually see them in the mirror sooner than adults. Isn’t that exciting?
Whether it’s metal braces, clear braces, or even same-day braces, we know the appointment to get them is a big deal for our patients. Likewise, parents might be a little bit concerned! Getting braces is nothing to worry about, but it’s easier for everyone when you know what to expect.
Beauchamp Orthodontics is the Port Orange orthodontist that makes life easier for kids and adults alike.
Dr. Marielle Beauchamp is a board-certified orthodontist whose practice is all about providing a fun and stress-free time for everyone. Everything is easier with Beauchamp Orthodontics, from our whimsical waiting room to a patient-focused care approach where everything is explained clearly.
In that spirit, we’d like to help you know exactly what to expect from “Braces Day.”
Let’s go through the whole thing step by step. Don’t worry, it’s a snap!
The Process Starts with a Quick Consultation
Before a child gets braces, Dr. Beauchamp will evaluate their orthodontic health. Braces work for just about all the orthodontic problems you can imagine, but everyone’s mouth is different. It’s crucial to make sure kids can get the most benefit from braces. This process usually lasts less than half an hour.
In the course of that consultation, Dr. Beauchamp examines the patient’s teeth and mouth, then takes detailed images. These may include conventional X-rays as well as full-color digital images. It only takes a few minutes for the images to be ready.
Once the diagnosis is done, Dr. Beauchamp will discuss options with you and your child. In most cases, it’s possible to get braces put in on the same day. Which is much more convenient for you since you don’t have to worry about making a second appointment.
Decide on Braces and Any Optional Extras
If you and your child are prepared to go forward with braces, you have a few choices to make.
Our metal braces are the most popular option. They combine the proven benefits of conventional braces with a smaller form factor that makes them less obvious. Kids can choose from colored bands on their braces to make them a little more fun and exciting. We have all kids’ favorite colors!
What if your little one feels metal braces are clunky? You might consider our clear braces. Clear braces are just as effective at treating orthodontic problems, but they are made from a clear plastic material. That makes it very hard for others to notice them.
Braces Go in Quickly and Easily
Getting braces in is a quick and easy process that can take as little as an hour.
The patient’s teeth are dried and then treated with a special substance to prepare the enamel surface for braces. Then an adhesive is placed to attach the brackets. The archwires are installed into the brackets, then the elastic bands are placed.
There may be mild discomfort on the very first day after getting braces. This is because your tongue and cheeks will take some time to get used to them. The sensitivity should pass within a week, and bleeding and inflammation are rare, but they should never last longer than two or three days.
Caring for Braces and Getting Your Follow-Up Appointments
Kids usually need a few pointers on the best way to care for their braces. They will need to learn how to brush around the braces. The tooth surfaces underneath the brackets are protected, but certain foods can get stuck in braces and may even damage them.
Everyone who gets braces needs a follow-up appointment now and then. During those appointments, the tension on the braces’ wires gets adjusted. This ensures that the right amount of gentle pressure is used to move the teeth into the desired position.
If you’re late to a follow-up appointment, you won’t have to “start over,” but your results will be slowed down. Kids may need anywhere from six months to about two years to enjoy full results. It all depends on their specific orthodontic issue, age, and visiting their Port Orange orthodontist on schedule.
From start to finish, the process of getting braces almost never takes more than two hours. Be sure your child understands they will need to sit still for a while. Also, know while it is safe to eat immediately after braces, it is usually safest to stick to softer foods for the first couple of days.
Schedule your consultation today to get started.
