It’s everyone’s wish to have a killer smile. For most people, this means having perfectly aligned teeth. This is where orthodontic treatment comes in. So, what does orthodontic treatment entail? This is a category of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
Various types of orthodontic treatments are available today, offered by reputable dental clinics all over the globe, such as AltaSmiles. But, with the many options to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you?
Here are some of the top tips to help you choose the proper orthodontic treatment:
- Consult With Your Dentist
When considering orthodontic treatment, it’s essential to consult with this emergency dentist in Arlington to ensure you’re choosing the right option for your unique needs. There are various orthodontic treatments available, each with its own specific benefits and drawbacks.
One of the reasons you must visit your dentist is that they’ll be able to countercheck your smile and bite to determine which treatment or procedure will be most effective in correcting your dental concerns.
In addition, your dentist can provide you with information on the expected length of treatment, the average cost of treatment, and any potential risks associated with orthodontic treatment. By consulting with your dentist before beginning treatment, you can be confident that you’re making the best decision for your smile.
- Consider Your Budget
It’s essential to look into your budget when choosing the right orthodontic treatment as prices of various procedures vary. For example, traditional metal braces are generally more expensive than Invisalign braces. However, Invisalign treatment may take longer to complete, which could end up costing you more in the long run.
In addition, it’s essential to consider your long-term goals when choosing an orthodontic treatment. For instance, if you’re interested in getting braces for aesthetic reasons, you may be willing to pay more for a treatment that’ll give you the best results. However, if you’re primarily interested in getting braces for functional reasons, you may be more concerned with saving money.
- Think About The Length Of Treatment
How long are you willing to be in treatment? Are you looking for a short-term solution with quicker results, or are you okay with a longer timeline if it means getting the perfect smile?
The average metal braces wearer spends about two years in treatment, while clear aligner wearers go through a process in less than a year.
You and your orthodontist will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the type of case you have. Still, knowing what you’re looking for is vital before starting any treatment.
- Consider Your Lifestyle
How often are you willing to brush and floss your teeth? Do you play contact sports? Are you likely to wear a mouthguard?
Your orthodontist will need to know the answers to these questions to recommend the right type of braces for you. If you’re active or play contact sports, metal braces may not be the best option since they can get damaged easily. Invisalign aligners, on the one hand, are ideal for athletes since they can be removed before playing and put back in afterward, with no risk of damage.
- Consider Your Age
Your age plays a role in the type of braces you can get. For example, younger patients may be candidates for growth modification, which takes advantage of a child’s natural growth to improve the alignment of their teeth and jaws. This is only possible while a child’s bones are still growing.
Conversely, adults aren’t good candidates for growth modification because their bones have stopped growing. That means they must rely on braces or clear aligners to move their teeth into the correct position.
If you’re an adult and considering orthodontic treatment, you must talk to your orthodontist about your options to decide on the right and best one for your smile.
Age also determines how long you’ll need to wear braces or clear aligners. Children typically only need to wear braces for one to two years because their bones are still growing, and they respond quickly to treatment. On the other hand, adults may need to wear braces or clear aligners for two to three years because their bones are no longer growing, and they usually have more complex orthodontic issues.
The good news is that more orthodontic options are now available for adults. You can choose from traditional braces, clear braces, or even clear aligners like Invisalign. And, with new and better technology, treatment times are shorter than they used to be. So, if you’re an adult considering orthodontic treatment, don’t let age hold you back!
- Consider Experience And Reputation
Unless you’re getting your braces from a close friend or family member, who’s an orthodontist, you’ll want to do some thorough research on the doctor you’re considering. How long have they been in business? Do they have any awards or recognitions? Are there any negative reviews about them online?
If you can, try to find someone who comes recommended by a trusted source. Friends, family, and even your regular dentist may be able to point you in the right direction.
You should also ensure that the orthodontist you choose is certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. This ensures they’ve completed all necessary training and are up-to-date on the latest techniques.
Finally, you’ll want to ensure that the orthodontist’s office is clean and organized. This is a good indication of how well they run their practice, and whether or not they take patient care seriously. An experienced orthodontist can help you understand each option’s pros and cons and make a recommendation based on your individual needs. They’ll also be able to answer any questions you have and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Choosing the right orthodontic treatment option is an important decision, so working with an experienced orthodontist who can help you make an informed choice is of the essence.
Conclusion
Choosing the right orthodontic treatment is vital for achieving the best possible results. Be sure to consider your age, lifestyle, and budget when taking your pick. And, if you’ve any questions, be sure to ask your orthodontist. They’ll be more than willing to help you choose the right treatment for you.