The Orthodontics Process
Depending on the needs of the patient, the details of any orthodontic process may vary. At Greater Vancouver Orthodontics, our team will guide you through each step of your customized treatment.
The Initial Exam & Consultation
Your first consultation at Greater Vancouver Orthodontics will include a thorough exam, a discussion about your dental and medical history, and X-rays. This will help us determine whether you need braces and, if so, what the most appropriate treatment for you will be, and its duration.
Treatment Begins
The duration and details of the treatment phase will 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.
Keep in mind that your own choices can have a significant impact on how long your treatment ultimately takes, so be sure to follow your orthodontist's advice throughout.
Regular Appointments & Adjustments
Once your wire dental braces are in place, you'll attend regular adjustment appointments, during which your orthodontist will fine-tune the elastic ties that hold the wires in place. Without these regular adjustments, the wires would be unable to create sufficient pressure to correct your misalignment issues.
If you're being treated with Invisalign, a series of custom-made, clear aligners will be created specifically for you. These typically need to be changed every two weeks.
During adjustment appointments, your orthodontist will also have the opportunity to evaluate the movement of your teeth and the progress made so far. This allows for recommendations that may improve the final outcome and duration of your treatment plan.
It takes a minimum of three weeks for tooth movement to occur. This means that most adjustment appointments take place every 3 to 10 weeks. However, with the newer wires available today that offer longer working ranges, adjustments may not be required as frequently.
Living With Braces
Once your dental braces are in place, it's more important than ever to maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine, and to avoid certain types of food. Your orthodontist may make additional suggestions, depending on the type of treatment. » Read More
Removal of Wire Braces
When your treatment is complete, your dental braces will be removed. This process is quite quick and simple, causing little to no discomfort.
When the bases of the brackets are squeezed, the adhesive bond releases, allowing the brackets to be removed. The adhesive is left on the teeth during this process to prevent damage to the enamel and tooth structure.
Once all brackets are off, the remaining bonding cement is removed. Your gums may be slightly inflamed afterwards, but this usually subsides in a few days with good brushing and flossing.
Recovery & Aftercare
After wire braces have been removed, you'll likely have to wear a retainer for a while. Retainers are removable orthodontic appliances that are necessary during the 'retention period' of orthodontic treatment when the teeth are somewhat unstable.
The retainer is specially made for your mouth. Your orthodontist will recommend whether you need to wear it full time or part time during the months after your braces are removed.
At your next regular check up after your braces are removed, our team will perform a thorough oral cleaning, and will also remove any remaining adhesive from your teeth.
Once your braces have been removed, you may consider teeth whitening, since there may be a noticeable difference in colour between where the brackets were bonded and the enamel surface.