Braces Tightening: What to Expect | Invisalign after Braces
Have you had braces for over a month or so? If so, you’re probably drawing close to your braces tightening appointment. Over the next few months, you’ll have to visit your walk-in dentist near me or orthodontist frequently for several such braces tightening works. You may be concerned about the visit and wondering what to expect from the braces tightening position. You may also imagine the worst-case scenarios about complicated and painful tightening experiences. However, the excellent news is that braces “tightening” is a misnomer, i.e., the visit won’t involve braces tightening. The truth of braces tightening appointments is much simpler—not something you should be worried about. This article discusses what to expect from braces tightening position, whether you should get Invisalign after underpinnings, and other considerations about orthodontic treatments.
What to expect during braces tightening?
The primary goal of orthodontic treatments and braces is to ensure that your teeth are moving in the desired direction towards alignment. Your orthodontist will ensure that the rubber bands and elastics work correctly, so they continue applying adequate pressure on your teeth. If the components of the braces are worn out, they won’t move your teeth along. The orthodontist will also need to adjust the wires, if necessary, to make sure they continue moving your teeth in the correct direction.
So now that you understand the primary purpose of these orthodontic appointments, what happens during these braces tightening works? The following is an overview of what to expect during braces tightening:
- Braces are made of archwires and brackets. Arch wires go around your teeth to apply pressure on them gently, and frames are attached to your teeth. The dentist will remove the bands holding the arch wires to the shelves. If they’re worn out, the dentist will replace them with new ones.
- While the archwires are away, the dentist will ask you to brush and floss your teeth. You can’t generally brush and floss well when you have arch cables, so this should be a relief.
- The dentist will examine your teeth and check their progress to ensure they’re moving in the correct direction and at the proper pace. If they notice signs of damage, they’ll discuss how you can better care of your braces and teeth.
- Finally, the orthodontist will place either the old or new archwires back on your braces and secure them with rubber bands. The dentist may also provide power chains that bring your teeth together more quickly.
The braces tightening appointment may lead to a bit of soreness caused by wire adjustment. You may experience discomfort for a few hours or even a few days. However, the discomfort is mild and temporary. If you experience any pain, inform your dentist so they can recommend suitable over-the-counter painkillers.
How long will it take for braces to straighten my teeth?
The amount of time you’ll need to wear your braces depends entirely on the condition of your teeth and how much alignment is necessary. In some cases, you can see the results in a few weeks; in other cases, you may not see any results for months. However, the entire orthodontic treatment may last six months to three years, and your orthodontist will let you know how long the process will be.
Can you still get braces with a loose tooth?
If you have a loose tooth, the orthodontist may schedule an appointment with a periodontist to determine if it’s okay to go ahead with the orthodontic treatment. Sometimes, you may have to wait until the periodontist gives the green light. In other cases, you may go ahead with the orthodontic treatment cautiously — without including the loose tooth in the setup.
How much do braces cost?
Traditional metal braces generally cost between $3,000 to $7,000.
Are Invisalign aligners useful?
Invisalign aligners are a great alternative to traditional metal braces because they’re invisible, and no archwires, rubber bands, or brackets are involved. You must wear clear and transparent thermoplastic aligners that gradually exert pressure on your teeth to move them in the desired direction.
Can Invisalign help straighten my teeth?
Yes, Invisalign is one of the most effective ways to straighten teeth, and it can straighten minor, moderate, or severe misalignment issues.
What is Invisalign treatment time?
The Invisalign treatment time usually varies from six to eighteen months, depending on the necessary alignment. However, the overall Invisalign treatment time is generally lower than traditional braces because they simultaneously apply more significant pressure to all teeth.
How much does Invisalign cost?
The cost of Invisalign aligners usually ranges from $4,000 to $7,400. As such, they’re a pretty expensive investment, but most people find the expense worth it, considering they’re a lot more effective, comfortable, and aesthetic than traditional alternatives.
Schedule Your Orthodontic Treatment Today
URBN Dental is one of the best emergency dental clinics in Houston, Texas, for orthodontic treatments, be it traditional braces or Invisalign aligners. We have some of the country’s finest dentists who scrutinize your teeth and recommend the best orthodontic treatments for your needs and budgetary constraints. For more information, please schedule your orthodontic treatment consultation today.
Summary:
Have you had braces for over a month or so? If so, you’re probably drawing close to your braces tightening appointment. The primary goal of orthodontic treatments and braces is to ensure that your teeth are moving in the desired direction towards alignment. Your orthodontist will ensure that the rubber bands and elastics work correctly, so they continue applying adequate pressure on your teeth. The entire orthodontic treatment may last for six months to three years. Your orthodontist will let you know how long the process will be. Invisalign aligners are a great alternative to traditional metal braces because they’re invisible, and no archwires, rubber bands, or brackets are involved. You are clear and transparent thermoplastic aligners that gradually exert pressure on your teeth to move them in the desired direction.
