The Orthodontics Process in Surrey
The details of any orthodontic process vary, depending on the needs of the patient. At our office in Surrey, BC, the Guildford Orthodontic Centre team will walk you through your customized treatment, step by step.
The Initial Exam & Orthodontic Consultation
The first consultation with the Guildford Orthodontic Centre team includes a thorough exam, discussion of your dental history and X-rays. From this meeting, we will determine whether your condition requires braces and, if so, what the most appropriate treatment is, and how long it will take.
Orthodontic Treatment Begins
The details of the treatment phase vary, depending on the seriousness of your condition and the type of treatment recommended (eg. Wire Braces vs. Invisalign®). Treatment duration typically lasts anywhere from 8 months to 48 months.
Regular Orthodontic Appointments & Adjustments
Once wire dental braces are in place, regular adjustment appointments are necessary to fine-tune the elastic ties holding the wires in proper place. Without adjustments, the wires would be incapable of creating the proper pressure to correct the dental issues requiring treatment.
With Invisalign®, a series of custom-made, clear aligners is then created specifically for you, which are typically changed every two weeks.
During adjustment appointments, your Surrey orthodontist also has the opportunity to evaluate the movement of your crooked teeth and the progress made. This allows for recommendations that may improve the final outcome of the treatment plan.
It takes a minimum of three weeks for tooth movement to occur, meaning that many adjustment appointments are made every three to 10 weeks. With the newer wires available today, however, adjustments may be required less frequently, since they tend to provide longer working ranges.
Living With Braces
When dental braces are in place, it is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and avoid certain types of food. Your orthodontist will also make other suggestions, depending on the type of treatment. >> Read More
Removal of Wire Braces
When your treatment is complete, your dental braces will be removed with a simple and relatively painless process. The bond between the brackets and your teeth is safely and gently broken. When the bases of the brackets are squeezed, the adhesive bond releases, and the brackets are removed. During this process, the adhesive is left on the teeth to prevent damage to the enamel and tooth structure.
Once all brackets are removed, the remaining bonding cement is removed. After all bonding cement removed, your gums may be slightly inflamed, but this will usually subside in a few days with good brushing and flossing.
Recovery & Aftercare
After wire braces have been removed, a retainer is typically recommended. Retainers are removable orthodontic appliances which are necessary during the 'retention period' of orthodontic treatment when the teeth are relatively unstable .
The retainer is specifically made for your mouth and your orthodontist will recommend whether you need to wear it full time or part time for a number of months after your braces are removed.
At your next regular check up after your braces are removed, your will have a thorough oral cleaning and our team will clean any left-over adhesive off your teeth and the area where the braces were.
Teeth whitening also may be considered, since there may be a noticeable difference in colour between where the brackets were bonded and the enamel surface.
Contact us to schedule an initial consultation in Surrey. We help our patients with orthodontic care to achieve improved oral health, straighter teeth, and beautiful smiles. We provide wide range of treatment options for perfect smiles. Need oral care in Surrey - we are here for you and your dental health!