We know about the various orthodontics devices (braces, Invisalign, Incognito, etc.), but it would be nice for our readers to also know what are the first steps for their orthodontics treatment and what needs to be done before smiling with braces or brand new Invisalign trays on their teeth.
PHOTOS, X-RAYS, AND MOLDS
When you get ready for your orthodontics treatment, your doctor will have to asses your overall dental situation. For these, you’ll have photos taken of your face (from the front and also profile) and also photos of your teeth and arches.
X-Rays help your orthodontist spot any problems with your teeth and also see how your orthodontic problems look like.
The final step at this moment is having a mold taken. This will provide all the details about your malocclusion and how crooked your teeth actually are.
If you haven’t seen your dentist before going to the orthodontist, all this data will be important for your teeth cleaning and repairing. You shouldn’t have braces put on unless you have ALL your teeth healthy and cavity filled and also your teeth professionally cleaned.
The orthodontist will create your individual treatment plan
Armed with all the data and having your teeth sparkling clean and healthy, it’s time for your doctor to start planning your treatment.
Each patient is unique and has different problems to solve. Even if in some cases your orthodontist uses the same devices (braces, power-chains, etc.), this doesn’t make your treatment similar to mine for instance.
This is the moment your orthodontist needs to show his true knowledge and experience, to offer a solution to your dental problems in the best way that suits your needs and solves those problems.
If you prefer a type of treatment (for me having braces wasn’t OK, since I was working as a radio DJ and couldn’t afford a lisp, so we used Invisalign), you need to tell your doctor this and also see if it can work on you and how it would function.
After your orthodontist has decided on the treatment plan, you’ll both meet to discuss it. Don’t be shy, ask ANYTHING. It’s your time to get as much information as possible, share your opinion and see how you both construct the treatment.