Traditional Braces | Before, During & After Treatment

Learn more about traditional braces. The most common, strongest, & proven method for straightening teeth.

Traditional Braces in 3 Easy Steps

Traditional braces are a common and effective way to straighten teeth and improve bites. Many patients in Augusta, Georgia may have questions about what life will be like before, during, and after orthodontic treatment. Here’s what you can expect during each stage of the treatment process at Augusta Orthodontics.

 

Step 1: Before Treatment

Before treatment begins, patients will typically have an initial consultation with their orthodontist. Dr. Dallam always provides free consultations before starting orthodontic care. During this appointment, the orthodontist, Dr. Dallam, will examine the patient’s smile, teeth, and bite.

Then we will discuss the treatment goals with you.  Based on this information, Dr. Dallam will determine the best type of braces for the patient, including traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, or even Invisalign aligners™.

Patients should also expect to have X-rays, impressions, and photos taken of their teeth and mouth during this appointment. These images will be used to create a custom treatment plan for the patient. 

This is when a true and accurate price for orthodontics can be given. Every patient is different, so giving a price without really knowing what you need is irresponsible.  Generally, you will finance some or all of your treatment. Learn more about our payment plans.

Did you know you can braces in one day? See how easy it is… LEARN MORE

After the initial consultation, patients will have a follow-up appointment to have their braces placed. This appointment will typically take one to two hours as the orthodontist places the brackets and wires on the teeth. Dr. Dallam and the team are experienced at making this longer first clinical appointment as gentle and comfortable as possible.

Want to meet Dr. Dallam and the Augusta Orthodontic team? – CLICK HERE

 

Step 2: During Treatment

 

Your braces are on!  During your orthodontic treatment, patients must visit Augusta Orthodontics every four to eight weeks for adjustments.

These appointments will typically take 30 minutes to one hour and can be scheduled over the phone. Dr. Dallam will check the progress of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the braces.  

Patients will need to take special care of their teeth while they have braces. This includes brushing and flossing regularly.  Patients that do not properly brush and floss risk having serious dental problems during and after treatment. The image of two of our patients below is a perfect example of this.

Brushing your teeth and flossing is a bit different with braces. Our team will help you learn how to properly brush and floss so that when the braces come off your smile is beautiful.

Patients should also be careful when playing sports or engaging in other physical activities to avoid injury to the mouth, lips, or face.  Patients can buy mouthguards specially made for metal or ceramic braces at sporting goods stores and online retailers.

Additionally, patients need to avoid certain foods. This includes foods like sticky candy, popcorn, chewing gum, and other hard foods that can damage the braces.

Life with traditional braces for patients in the Augusta area can be a little challenging initially, but many patients get used to them after a few days.

Some common side effects our patients will experience from orthodontic treatment include soreness, discomfort, and difficulty eating. These symptoms typically subside after a few days. Sometimes after an appointment, patients have some soreness. Don’t worry. This is a good sign that the teeth are moving and you’ll be out of braces soon showing off your new, amazing smile to everyone in the Augusta area.

Step 3: After Treatment

After the braces are removed, patients will need to wear a retainer to keep their teeth in place. Retainers can be removable or fixed and will be worn for a period of time determined by our orthodontist, Dr. Dallam.  You will need to wear the retainer all the time immediately after you’re out of braces or Invisalign. 

We know patients want to show off their new smiles, so we provide clear plastic retainers which are virtually invisible.  People won’t even be able to tell you to have it in!

Our patients will also need to continue to take good care of their teeth and visit us for regular check-ups. Checking in at Augusta Orthodontics every 6-12 months after the braces come off is a good idea.

You need to protect your investment in your looks and smile.  This is important to ensure that retainers are working, the teeth stay straight, and to catch any potential problems early.  This is especially important for adolescent patients that have wisdom teeth coming in.  The wisdom teeth move all your straightened teeth out of alignment. 

Orthodontic braces from Dr. Dallam and Augusta Orthodontics are an affordable, common, and effective way to achieve straightened teeth and improve bites. Patients in Augusta, Georgia can expect to have a free initial consultation, followed by the placement of braces and regular appointments for adjustments.

Life with braces may be a little challenging at first, but many patients get used to them quickly and are thrilled with the results. Check out some of our patient reviews here.

After treatment, patients will need to wear a retainer and continue to take good care of their teeth to maintain their beautiful, straight smiles.

To learn more about the different types of retainers click here.

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