Kids usually have their first appointment with an orthodontist before the age of eight. That doesn’t mean orthodontic care is only for kids and pre-teens. As an adult, you can benefit from the right treatment. If you are planning a visit to an Irving orthodontist, here are some things to know.
Reasons for your visit
There are several signs that it’s time to see an orthodontist, such as –
- You are unhappy with the alignment of your teeth
- You have confidence and self-esteem issues
- You are experiencing tooth decay or gum disease due to malocclusions
- You have frequent headaches and chronic jaw pain
- You are unable to clean, brush, or floss your teeth and gums
For many adults, the appearance of their smile is often the first reason to seek orthodontic care. However, if you have a malocclusion or other concerns related to your bite and teeth alignment, you should plan your first appointment anyway.
“What if I don’t want braces?”
While metal braces are extremely effective and beneficial for getting a straighter smile, you can also consider other treatments. There are options like Invisalign that can help fix your teeth alignment concerns without metalwork. Invisalign consists of clear plastic trays, which are customized and replaced every few weeks. Clear aligners work in the same way as metal braces but are almost invisible. Also, you can remove the trays, which allows you to brush and floss normally. There are also no restrictions related to food.
What to expect from the visit?
During your first orthodontic appointment, you will start by filling out forms. The orthodontist will review your health history and consider your concerns. They may order a few X-rays and imaging tests to understand the positioning of your teeth and gums. Depending on what you want, they will recommend treatment options, such as metal braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign. If you agree to one of the options, they will plan the further steps.
Results from orthodontic treatments
Orthodontic treatments don’t offer overnight solutions. You need to commit to the treatment and must be patient. It can take anywhere between 6 to 24 months to see a visible difference in the appearance of your teeth. With modern scans and imaging, your dentist can offer a fair overview of the outcome in advance.
Check with an orthodontist to learn more about the advanced ways to get a straight, confident smile.
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