What To Expect When You Get Your Braces Off
December 8, 2023
The time to start treatment is now! At Dudley Smiles, our team strives to offer the best orthodontic services to our community while providing a stress-free and fun experience. Before you understand what orthodontic issues you have, you may be wondering which orthodontic treatment you should get. We can answer your questions and help you begin care to get your smile journey started!
What to Consider When Making a Decision
Average Treatment Length
A common question from patients is how long treatment will last. We cannot provide a concrete answer until Dr. Dudley and our team can examine your teeth in person. However, patients typically continue orthodontic care for between one to three years. Some complete their plan sooner than others, depending on the complexity of your case.
The length of your treatment depends upon a few factors – including your choice of appliance, the current condition of your oral health and teeth position, and the results you want to achieve. Dr. Dudley can give you a more exact time frame during your free consultation.
Lifestyle and Aesthetics
Considering how long treatment can take, one of our top priorities is ensuring you feel confident and happy with your appliance choice. As we initially consider the most effective treatment, we understand each of our patients has a different lifestyle, so our team will also listen to your aesthetic desires.
Whether you are a student in middle school, a professional with a busy schedule, or a college student not always close to the office, Dr. Dudley will provide more insight as to which appliance may be most convenient as well as efficient and help you stay compliant to keep your plan on schedule.
Budget
Our team works hard to find a payment plan that fits your family’s budget to try and eliminate the stress that can come with thinking about the financial side of things. We strive to keep ourselves as an affordable care option for our community members so they can work toward the smile they deserve!
Dudley Smiles accepts most major insurance plans in Washington and will happily file your claim for you to help maximize your benefits. We can also use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to help with the orthodontic expense. When you come in, our Dudley Smiles treatment coordinator will walk you through a full breakdown of costs so no surprises await you after beginning treatment.
Your Treatment Options
Clear Aligners
You can straighten your teeth without anyone even noticing with Spark or Invisalign clear aligners. Clear aligners provide an advanced treatment that delivers stunning results with the help of a series of custom-fitted clear trays. These trays are replaced every week as your teeth shift into their position and move closer and closer to perfect alignment. No food restrictions come with clear aligners, as the trays are removed before eating. You will also be able to brush and floss as you normally do.
Patients must remain compliant throughout treatment, as the trays must be worn at least 22 hours per day for your plan to stay on schedule. Dr. Dudley will share if clear aligners is an effective option for you during your free consultation.
Metal Braces
The most recognizable sign of orthodontics is metal braces. Some adult patients may remember them as big and bulky, but thanks to advancements in the field, they are now smaller and more comfortable than ever. Metal braces are made up of brackets, wires, elastics, and other components and shift your teeth through slight constant pressure over a long period.
They are great at fixing complex dental issues and can shorten your treatment time due to their effectiveness in closing gaps and aligning teeth. They are popular for teenage orthodontic treatment, as they are stronger than the ceramic braces – made out of medical-grade stainless steel. Because they do not use the same expensive equipment as clear aligners or ceramic braces, they remain a cost-effective option for patients looking to straighten their teeth within their budget.
Ceramic Braces
A hybrid alternative to the previous two appliances, clear ceramic braces are the perfect choice for those looking for the strength of metal braces and the aesthetic of Invisalign. They use small, clear, tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your teeth and provide a comfortable feel inside your mouth. Thanks to technological improvements, there’s no need to worry about staining them with coffee, chocolate, or similar dark liquids or foods. The ceramic braces we use are also custom 3-D printed, so they are tailored to your individual teeth.
Dr. Dudley’s Recommendation
When you begin your orthodontic consultation with Dr. Dudley, you will learn the details of any issues present and receive an expert recommendation FREE of charge. He and our team take digital pictures of your teeth, capture x-rays, and review your dental and general health history to understand how we can best help you out and improve your oral health.
This is also a great time to share any questions or concerns you have about your smile journey, aesthetic or lifestyle preferences you would like to have considered when making your decision, and any other accommodations. We take our time during this commitment-free appointment and will happily provide you with the answers you seek.
Why Pursue Orthodontic Care?
Straightened teeth improve their overall function and are a significant step in preserving them to last a lifetime. There are many other health benefits to going through the process as well, including easier oral care maintenance as we eliminate hard-to-reach spots in your mouth, improved speech patterns, and smooth digestion thanks to more effective chewing.
Undergoing orthodontic care can provide patients with a huge confidence boost! Being happy with your smile holds power over your mental health, so it is essential to our team that you are satisfied with your grin and are eager to show it off to the world. Your comfort and confidence are top priorities for us. We will work to ensure we match your needs throughout care.
Discover Your New Smile!
Orthodontic treatment is a life-changing experience; you can be next in line to achieve the smile you deserve! If you feel ready to begin treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Dudley and our friendly team at our Issaquah practice to get started. We can’t wait to meet you!