Understanding the Different Phases of Braces Treatment

risingermarketing on March 26, 2025

Orthodontic care and treatments follow a step-by-step process to ensure the overall goal is achieved and you have a straighter and healthier smile. While patient conditions and situations differ, the phases that each individual goes through are quite similar. If the result you’re after is aligned teeth, then braces treatment might be for you. Let’s explore the various stages of this orthodontic solution so you know what to expect.

Pre-Braces: Consultation, Assessment, and Treatment Plan

Before you become ready for your braces, you and your orthodontist must prepare a few things. During the first consultation, your teeth and their position will be assessed to study the specific treatment that suits you. Your teeth and gum health will also be checked.

As part of your clinical orthodontic evaluation, X-rays will be performed. Orthodontic X-rays show the roots of your teeth and jawbones and allow your orthodontist to check for underlying oral health issues. If there is a sign of gum disease or any other problems, they must be treated first before your braces are applied.

After the initial assessment, you will be asked to return for a second consultation. This is where a detailed treatment plan will be presented to you. It will include all the available options for you, after which you or your parents will have to decide if you wish to proceed. The orthodontist will then explain all the stages you will go through and answer any of your questions.

Treatment Stage

This is the active phase of your treatment, starting with the application of the braces. Dental glue will be applied to each tooth so the brackets will adhere properly. Next, the archwires will be added once the brackets are in place.

The first phase of treatment involves leveling and aligning your teeth into the desired position. To ensure your teeth keep moving correctly, you will be scheduled for visits every four to eight weeks for braces adjustments.

Once alignment has been achieved, gaps and bites in your teeth will be addressed next. The final stage of your treatment involves fine-tuning the alignment and bite. Depending on your treatment, a fixed or removable retainer will be recommended by your orthodontist, which you must use after your braces are removed.

Post-Braces

After removing your braces, you must wear your retainers full-time for at least three months. After this period, your orthodontist will check if you need to continue wearing it full-time or only for 12 hours a day. You will also make regular dental visits to see if your teeth are maintained in the correct position.

Ask Us Anything About Your Smile Journey

If you want to know anything about the stages of your orthodontic treatment, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut. We’d be more than happy to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

What You Need To Know About Adult Orthodontics

risingermarketing on January 3, 2025

What You Need To Know About Adult Orthodontics

January 3, 2025
Dr. Risinger

In recent years, there has been a positive shift in people’s perceptions and attitudes about getting orthodontic treatment, which includes having teeth straightened. Braces, which used to be only common among teenagers and younger people, and other orthodontic solutions are becoming increasingly popular among adults.

It is great to see more individuals recognize that the value of adult orthodontics goes beyond appearance. It helps improve overall well-being by fixing teeth and alignment issues, preventing oral health problems down the line. Let’s explore the various aspects of orthodontic care for adults in this guide.

The Need for Adult Orthodontics

Just because adults have permanent teeth does not mean there’s nothing more we can do about alignment or bite issues. Our teeth can naturally shift, even as we age, and when this happens, orthodontic solutions are, more often than not, the answer. Seeking orthodontic care is vital to help avoid the deterioration of oral health as well as potential health complications in older age.

The Factors Behind the Popularity

Advancements in dental technology, various treatment options, and accessibility are among the top factors in the rising trend of adults looking to improve their smiles. If you want straighter teeth, metal braces are no longer the only option. Those who prefer more discreet solutions can now choose clear aligners, which can be conveniently removed while eating, brushing, and flossing.

This is just one example of how newer treatments address the many concerns of adults who need orthodontic care but might be discouraged for various reasons. Another aspect that has vastly improved is accessibility and cost. Flexible payment and financing options are now widely available, and some insurance plans provide partial coverage, making orthodontic care less daunting.

Common Adult Orthodontic Issues

Orthodontic treatments for adults often address issues that were either untreated or inadequately resolved during childhood. These include malocclusion or misaligned teeth, crowded teeth or overcrowding, underbites, overbites, and crossbites.

Apart from affecting one’s appearance, these dental problems can lead to worse oral health issues. For example, crowded teeth can be harder to clean, resulting in severe tooth decay and gum disease. Thus, dealing with these issues is not just for improved cosmetics but also for functional and long-term health.

Achieve a Straighter, Healthier Smile No Matter Your Age

It’s never too late to start your journey toward a more beautiful and healthier smile. Let Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut help you choose the best treatment plan that suits your lifestyle, budget, and needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

What To Consider Before Choosing a Local Orthodontist

risingermarketing on December 5, 2024

What To Consider Before Choosing a Local Orthodontist

December 5, 2024
Dr. Risinger

If you need orthodontic treatment and care, it’s essential to find an orthodontist who will provide you with the highest quality and level of service. But with hundreds of practitioners listed in your area, how do you choose one? Here are some factors to consider when looking for a local orthodontist:

Credentials

Start by visiting the website of the American Board of Orthodontics. Next, create a list of orthodontists in your area who are board-certified and with confirmed active dental licenses. If a practitioner refuses to show proof of their license, remove them from your list—you want to make sure you’re getting proper care from a qualified professional.

Duration of Practice

Consider choosing an established practice since their years in business has most likely allowed them to fine-tune their operations, increasing your chances of receiving outstanding customer service and patient care. In addition, a practice that’s already been around for quite some time will already have reviews and feedback from previous clients.

Location

Take note of the location of your options since orthodontic care is not a one-time thing. Any treatment that you receive will require regular visits, from the consultation and treatment proper to the follow-up care. Make sure that the practice that you choose is located within an accessible location to your home or workplace.

Services Offered

Not all orthodontists offer the same services and treatments. Therefore, it is important that you consult various practitioners, and allow them to assess your specific condition and recommend the best treatment they see fit. This will help you review the options so you can make an informed decision. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t be pressured to choose the most expensive treatment available.

Reviews and Reputation

Before choosing an orthodontic practice in your area, try to ask your friends, family, neighbors, etc., if they have had any experience with an orthodontist in the past. If they have, ask them about the quality of the service they received and how they were looked after.

Doing this will help you learn what to expect and find a reputable practice. If no information from your inner circle is available, check online reviews to find out which ones have a positive reputation.

Start Your Journey Toward a Straighter and Brighter Smile

Our team at Risinger Orthodontics in Glastonbury, Connecticut is dedicated to helping our patients achieve a fantastic smile and boost their confidence. Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation and explore the right orthodontic treatment for you. We look forward to serving you!