If you’ve recently decided to pursue a straighter and healthier smile using orthodontic treatment, you might have a lot on your mind. There are many options out there, each with unique benefits, and only by staying well-informed will you have the confidence to commit to a particular treatment and attain the smile you’ve been dreaming of. Here are a few questions you should keep in mind as you head into your first orthodontic appointment so that you can get the answers you need to feel great about straightening your smile!
What Orthodontic Treatments Are Available?
During your initial consultation, your orthodontist will review all of the available orthodontic solutions that they offer and inform you about which would best suit your needs. This always follows a comprehensive examination that often includes X-rays. Some patients are great candidates for clear aligner therapy such as Invisalign, while others are eligible for tried-and-true metal braces. Your orthodontist will provide extensive details and projections concerning each option and ensure that you walk away having made the best possible decision.
Does Orthodontic Treatment Hurt?
Many people have concerns about pain going into any type of dental treatment, especially orthodontics. But you should be happy to hear that while there might be some discomfort or irritation when orthodontic appliances are initially placed, the feeling is temporary and shouldn’t last. In any case, there are many ways to successfully cope with orthodontic-related discomfort including dental wax, salt water rinses, over-the-counter pain relievers, and more. Your orthodontist will be happy to provide you with additional means for dealing with irritation.
How Will My Diet Be Impacted?
Orthodontic treatment is notorious for being accompanied by dietary restrictions—metal braces warrant the need to avoid certain foods altogether, whereas clear aligners need to be removed before you eat anything at all. Your orthodontist will provide you with specific guidelines to follow; with braces, these generally include avoiding things like hard candies, popcorn, and other particularly crunchy or chewy items. However, by showing caution and making sensible choices, no matter what route you end up taking, you can ensure that there aren’t any setbacks in your treatment.
How Much Will Treatment Cost?
The bottom line here is that the cost of orthodontic treatment depends heavily on the type of treatment being utilized, coupled with its overall duration. Since this is going to vary from patient to patient, there’s no “exact” cost for orthodontic care and only your provider can give you an estimate. That said, many practices work with numerous insurance providers and offer alternative payment options to help alleviate the financial burden that orthodontics can pose.
About the Author
Dr. David W. Cordes received his dental doctorate from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and has proudly served patients and families in the Enfield, CT community for several years. His practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of orthodontic services that are certain to help you and your loved ones achieve straighter and healthier smiles. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to arrange a visit, feel free to contact his practice online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Enfield Office Telephone: (860) 749-1909.