It’s Time to Get Your Braces Adjusted!

Getting orthodontic treatment with braces is still the best way to get a straight smile for the widest range of orthodontic cases. While the end result of having a beautiful smile and better oral health in the future will be well worth the wait, having braces will take some getting used to. One aspect of having braces that can make some patients nervous is the process of having your braces adjusted. However, this process goes by smoothly and quickly, so there’s nothing for you to worry about.

Why Do Braces Need to Be Adjusted?

When you have braces, the combination of the brackets, archwire, and ligatures creates pressure to correct your smile by moving your teeth to their proper positions. However, your braces can’t be set to their final positions with just the initial installment because that much pressure at one time would end up damaging your teeth and probably your jaws.

Instead, your braces will be installed and set to the first stage of adjustment. You’ll experience several stages of orthodontic correction until your teeth are straight and your braces can be removed.

What to Expect When Your Braces are Adjusted

When you go in for an adjustment, your orthodontist will take a careful look at your teeth and braces to see how your treatment is progressing. He or she will assess how far your teeth have moved during the first stage to see if everything is on track. Your orthodontist will also look for any problems that may need to be addressed. This is also a good time for you to point out any areas of discomfort, such as brackets poking your gums.

During your adjustment appointment, your orthodontist will replace any ligatures that are loose or worn out. They will also tighten the archwire to begin the next phase of your treatment. In some cases, your orthodontist may even replace some of the wire if it has become damaged or worn out in any way. Once everything is done, your braces should look pretty much the same.

Will My Teeth Hurt after Getting Braces Adjusted?

After each adjustment appointment, your teeth will have additional pressure being exerted upon them, so you shouldn’t be surprised if you experience some mild discomfort for the next day or two. However, some patients won’t feel anything at all, so it depends on each person’s specific case. If you experience pain or discomfort for more than a couple of days, contact your orthodontist.

How Often Will I Need to Have My Braces Adjusted?

Each patient is slightly different in terms of how often they will need their braces adjusted. The most typical frequency to have braces adjusted is every 8 to 10 weeks. However, it could be more or less often depending on your case. If you notice any broken or loose parts, you may need extra appointments in between your normal appointments.

To learn more about life with braces, contact Crescent Orthodontic Specialists today and schedule your free consultation!