Detailed Stages of Orthodontics

Orthodontics is one of the most effective methods for dental correction today. To achieve the best results from orthodontic treatment, patients should understand the various stages of the process, choose the appropriate method, and determine the treatment costs. Follow this article for detailed answers!

1. Detailed Stages of Orthodontics

Orthodontics uses specialized orthodontic appliances to move misaligned teeth and jawbones into the correct positions. This corrects issues like spacing, protrusion, crowding, and misalignment of the bite and jaw (such as overbites, underbites, open bites, and deep bites), providing patients with a healthy, aesthetically pleasing smile that harmonizes the lips, nose, and chin.

Typically, the orthodontic process takes an average of 24 months or more and is divided into four stages:

1.1. Examination and Treatment Planning

Before starting orthodontics, the doctor conducts a comprehensive examination to assess the patient’s needs and investigate any dental history. The patient will then undergo intraoral and extraoral imaging, as well as X-rays and cephalometric radiographs, to provide the necessary data for diagnosis.

Based on these images and specialized software, the doctor will evaluate the current dental condition and determine the treatment plan and duration. Additionally, patients will be advised on choosing a suitable orthodontic method that fits their financial situation while ensuring satisfactory results.

After agreeing to the treatment, the patient will undergo dental impressions. Depending on the chosen orthodontic method, the impression procedure may vary. At Elite Dental, traditional braces use the conventional impression process, while clear aligners use modern 3D scanning technology.

View more: What Are Crooked Teeth, and can Invisalign correct them?

1.2. Aligning the Teeth

This is the initial stage of orthodontics. After developing a specific treatment plan, the doctor uses braces and gradually thicker archwires to rotate and align the teeth. The time required for this stage ranges from 2 to 6 months, depending on the current dental condition. Patients may feel discomfort for 1 to 3 days after the archwire is tightened, but this typically subsides.

If there is insufficient space for the teeth to align within the dental arch, the doctor may recommend tooth extraction or interproximal reduction to ensure optimal tooth movement.

1.3. Detailed Bite Adjustment

In this stage, the doctor uses specialized appliances like elastics, springs, mini-screws, or loops to close gaps and improve tooth alignment. This process supports optimal alignment but requires careful planning to avoid issues like root resorption. This is a crucial and complex stage in orthodontics.

After closing the gaps, minor bite adjustments may be necessary. The doctor will adjust both the upper and lower jaws to ensure a proper bite, restoring optimal chewing function. This stage lasts from 4 to 8 months, depending on the individual’s dental condition.

1.4. Removing Braces and Wearing Retainers 

Once perfect orthodontic results are achieved – aligned teeth, proper bite, and a harmonious facial profile – the doctor will remove the braces and provide retainers. Retainers help stabilize the teeth in their new positions and prevent relapse.

Patients may also undergo aesthetic treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, gum contouring, or scaling to achieve a beautiful, confident smile.

2. What Is the Most Challenging Stage of Orthodontics?

The first three months are the most challenging stage because patients are not yet accustomed to the braces. The metal framework can feel cumbersome and uncomfortable, causing issues like broken brackets or wire irritation for those with sensitive tissues.

Modern dentistry now offers clear aligners like Invisalign, which are more comfortable and address the shortcomings of traditional braces. Developed since 1997, Invisalign provides precise tooth movement with custom-made trays, ensuring straight teeth, a beautiful bite, and a balanced smile.

Invisalign offers several superior benefits:

• Attachments placed directly on the teeth ensure optimal tooth movement, enhancing bite correction and overall smile aesthetics.
• Clear aligners eliminate issues like broken brackets or wire irritation, reducing treatment time and requiring fewer follow-up visits (every 1 to 2 months).
• Easy removal of aligners for eating and cleaning, maintaining oral hygiene and preventing decay or periodontal disease.
• Comfortable orthodontic experience, allowing patients to enjoy their favorite foods without the need for cutting or blending.
• Made from high-quality biocompatible materials certified by the FDA, ensuring safety and comfort during daily activities.

Despite its many benefits, Invisalign does not determine the final treatment outcome. Instead, 95% of success depends on the orthodontist’s expertise. Therefore, when choosing clear aligners, patients should select reputable orthodontic centers with experienced specialists to ensure optimal, long-lasting results.

View more: Thinking about Braces? Here’s what you should know

3. Important Considerations During and After Orthodontics

 To expedite the orthodontic process and shorten treatment time, patients should:

• Attend regular check-ups as advised for monitoring tooth and bite movement. Traditional braces require monthly visits, while clear aligners involve at-home tray changes and follow-ups every 1 to 2 months.
• Adhere to recommended wearing times for appliances, aligners, and elastics.
• Limit consumption of sugary and starchy foods that can produce acids harmful to teeth and gums. Avoid hard, chewy foods that can break archwires or brackets.
• Brush teeth at least twice a day using both a regular toothbrush and an interdental brush.
• Use dental floss instead of toothpicks and regularly rinse with mouthwash.
• Avoid habits that interfere with tooth movement, such as lip biting, thumb sucking, or tongue thrusting.

View more: How to keep your teeth clean with Braces: Tips and tricks

Orthodontics requires skill, precision, and the orthodontist’s expertise. For a beautiful, straight smile with a perfect bite, patients should choose reputable dental clinics with experienced specialists.

With the detailed information above, we hope patients now have a clear understanding of the specific orthodontic process. During treatment, it’s essential to follow the doctor’s instructions and maintain proper oral care to ensure timely progress and achieve the desired results. Contact Elite Dental for further consultation on current orthodontic methods:

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