Depending on the type of treatment Dr. Kanani recommends — traditional wire braces, Invisalign or another treatment option — the details of your individual orthodontic process vary. Nonetheless, the following can be used as a guideline for what to expect.
Initial Consultation & Exam
The first consultation typically includes an examination, discussion of your dental history and X-rays. From this meeting, we will determine whether your condition requires orthodontic treatment and, if it does, what the most appropriate treatment is, and how long it will take.
Treatment Begins
Treatment details vary depending on how serious your condition is and the type of treatment you and Dr. Kanani settle on (eg. wire braces or Invisalign). Treatment can last anywhere from 8 months to 48 months.
Regular Appointments & Adjustments
Regular adjustment appointments are necessary for traditional metal braces to fine-tune the elastic ties holding the wires in proper place. Without adjustments, the wires would cease to create the pressure necessary to correct the misalignment.
With Invisalign, a series of custom-made, clear aligners will be created for you, each set of which you can change out every other week yourself.
During regular appointments, whatever style of treatment you undergo, Dr. Kanani will evaluate the movement of your teeth and the progress you've made. This allows him to make adjustments to your treatment place that may improve the final outcome.
It takes at least of three weeks for tooth movement to occur. Adjustment appointments are made every three to 10 weeks for this reason. However, with the newer wires available today, adjustments may be required less frequently, since they tend to provide longer working ranges.
Living With Braces
It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and avoid certain types of food when you're undergoing orthodontic treatment. » Read More
Removal of Wire Braces
Your dental braces will be removed with a simple process at the end of your treatment. First, the bond between the brackets and your teeth will be broken. When the bases of the brackets are squeezed, the adhesive bond releases, and the brackets can be removed. The adhesive is initially left on the teeth to prevent damage to the enamel and tooth structure.
Only once all brackets are removed will the remaining bonding cement is removed. Your gums may be slightly inflamed after your braces have been removed, but this will subside in a few days with good brushing and flossing.
Recovery & Aftercare
A retainer is typically recommended after orthodontic treatment is complete. Retainers are removable orthodontic appliances that are necessary during the 'retention period' of orthodontic treatment when the teeth are relatively unstable.
Your retainer will be custom-made to fit your mouth and Dr. Kanani will prescribe either full- or part-time wear for a number of months after your braces have been removed.
At the first check up after your braces are removed, your will have a complete oral cleaning to remove any left-over adhesive from your teeth and the area where the braces were.
At this point, teeth whitening also may be considered, since there may be a noticeable difference in colour between where the brackets were bonded and the enamel surface.
