It’s the start of the New Year, and that means it’s time to get started on the new goals you have for 2025. If one of your resolutions is to finally start orthodontic treatment, the team at Contemporary Dental in Bellaire, TX, is here to help. Whether you are an adult who needs orthodontic treatment for the first time, or you want to start interceptive treatment for your child, we are here to help you through the process. In today’s blog, we’re here to talk about what to expect when starting alignment treatments.
Start With A Consultation
Having a properly aligned smile can help improve your confidence and your oral health. Before you can get started with braces or clear aligners, you will first need a consultation with an orthodontist. Your child can come in for their initial consultation around the age of seven years old. During this visit, the team will examine their smile and take X-rays, which can help create an interceptive treatment plan if needed. Interceptive or Phase One treatment can help ensure their jaws are properly developed before starting braces. If you are an adult seeking orthodontic care, you may not need interceptive treatment, and your orthodontist can begin discussing your potential options for braces or aligners.
Traditional Or Lingual Braces
When you think of orthodontic care, braces may be the first option you envision to straighten overlapping or poorly spaced teeth. Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to gradually shift your pearly whites into the correct position. Every six to eight weeks you will have an appointment to change the bands and adjust the wires as needed. On average, this process will take around one to two years to complete. We also offer lingual braces, which work the same way as traditional, except the wires and brackets are placed behind your teeth. This may be a helpful and more discreet options for some of our patients.
Clear Aligners Offer More Discretion
Invisalign and ClearCorrect are two popular options of clear aligners that may be available to patients who qualify. Clear aligners use clear trays to address your misalignment. Unlike braces, you will not need brackets or wires for this process. Every few weeks, your orthodontist will instruct you to move onto the next set of trays as your teeth are moved into the correct position. Many teenage or adult patients may prefer clear aligners as they are more discreet and may be more comfortable than braces for some patients. You can remove the trays before meals and when doing your oral hygiene routine. To find out which option is best for your needs, schedule a consultation today.
Talk To Our Team To Learn More
Are you ready to start the process of braces or clear aligners? Call the team at Contemporary Dental in Bellaire, TX, today at 713-668-9119 to learn more.