First appointment
We all have some anxiety before the first "date"! But in the case of the first orthodontic visit, this is unnecessary, and it is important to clarify that we do not perform any intervention, so there is no reason to worry, which may be a concern especially for young children.
So, at the first meeting, we get to know each other and discuss the reasons that led you to consult us. A clinical examination of the mouth and the face as a whole is performed. This results in a general assessment of the orthodontic "situation" with regard mainly to the existence or not of an orthodontic problem, the severity of the problem and the appropriate time to start treatment. In addition, the possible treatment methods are discussed in a general context and a rough estimate of the cost of treatment is given.
I am interested in treatment
After the first visit and if there is a need and desire for orthodontic treatment, we schedule a second appointment to collect diagnostic data that will provide accurate and necessary information about the health and position of the teeth and jaws.
The diagnostic data are:
- Medical and dental history.
- Clinical examination of the teeth.
- Examination of the face as a whole: profile, lips, muscles of the oromandibular region.
- Taking impressions for making plaster casts of the teeth.
- Taking digital photos of the teeth and face.
- X-rays of teeth and jaws (a referral to a radiology laboratory is provided).
At the third meeting we are meeting to discuss the orthodontic treatment plan.
What is the orthodontic treatment plan?
It is the individualized treatment approach for the orthodontic patient.
From the detailed study of the diagnostic data mentioned above (history-examination-radiographs), we are led to the exact diagnosis of the orthodontic problem. We take into account your personal expectations of the treatment. We set the goals of orthodontic treatment and explore all alternatives that may exist to achieve our goal. We determine the stages of orthodontic treatment and the type of appliances to be used. We also determine the duration of the treatment and its cost.
Together, we analyse and discuss all the above, answering all your questions. We can then agree on the start of orthodontic treatment, following a plan that suits you, both therapeutically and personally.
I started treatment
...and I pay more attention to brushing my teeth.
A beautiful smile must above all be healthy. Good oral hygiene is essential for the smooth progression and success of orthodontic treatment. With the placement of fixed orthodontic appliances on the teeth (e.g. the classic "braces"), the degree of difficulty in brushing the teeth increases. What is basically needed to compensate for this difficulty is a longer brushing time and attention to detail in order to properly clean the teeth and gums.
When there are mobile devices (e.g. dentures, transparent splints), these are removed during brushing. Mobile devices also need to be cleaned.
On the day the mobile or fixed appliances are placed in the mouth, we thoroughly explain and show you how to take care of your teeth and braces.
...and I'm more careful when I eat.
It refers to the immobile mechanisms that are placed in the mouth and can become detached during eating. When braces come off frequently, mouth discomfort can occur and in the long term can prolong the duration of treatment. As with brushing, you will receive detailed instructions on the day the appliances are placed in the mouth. Mobile appliances are removed during eating.
The basic guideline is that you can eat anything, but more carefully. Foods that are hard or crunchy, we recommend that you cut them into smaller pieces before eating them. Gum and candy are also not "braces friendly".
... and continue my sporting and musical activities.
It is natural to want to take care of not only our mouth but also our body! So sports are normally allowed during orthodontic treatment. What changes in the case of an injury with bonded braces is that the soft tissues (lips, cheeks) can be more easily injured. Depending on the intensity and degree of physical contact of the sport (e.g., basketball, martial arts, etc.), we can discuss the use of protective splints or, when mobile appliances are present, their removal during the sport.
Those who play a wind instrument may find it difficult for a few days to adjust to the new conditions of the mouth. With regular practice the adjustment time will be short.
...and I can visit the dentist regularly.
The presence of orthodontic appliances in the mouth is not a contraindication for any dental work. In fact, it is often recommended to clean the teeth during treatment.
...and I have a problem with the chewing/braces.
Contact the clinic and depending on the problem we will give you the appropriate instructions. Not all problems that may arise are serious and you will usually be able to treat them palliatively, as we will have already informed you of emergency situations. We will need to see you directly if there is pain and if the problem that has arisen is significantly affecting your treatment at the time.
"Every beginning is difficult"
As can be seen from the above, with the start of orthodontic treatment, new facts arise in the oral environment. The adaptation time to the new conditions varies from person to person, but usually lasts only a few days. The assessment of the difficulties of the first few days is also subjective. Some have more difficulty with brushing, others feel the pressure of the first few days on the teeth is quite annoying, while some have difficulty with speaking for a few days (only applies to mobile devices). What is certain is that with a little effort and patience, all difficulties are soon overcome and orthodontic treatment is not a hindrance to daily activities.
I have completed the treatment
...and I'm wearing retainer braces.
After the end of the active phase of orthodontic treatment, the retention phase begins, i.e. the maintenance of the therapeutic result.
This phase is very important, because the teeth and in some cases the jaws have a tendency to relapse, which decreases over time.
Retaining devices are mobile (dentures/transparent splints) and fixed (thin orthodontic wire placed on the inner surface of the front teeth).
The type and time of restraint is determined individually for each patient.
... and I smile!!!!
