What is the best age to start orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can begin at any age, but many professionals recommend having a first evaluation around age 7. Early treatment may help correct issues before they worsen. However, adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment as well, with options like clear aligners and braces available for all ages.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

The length of orthodontic treatment depends on the complexity of your case. On average, treatment can take between 12 and 24 months. Your orthodontist will provide a more accurate timeline after assessing your individual needs.

Will orthodontic treatment be painful?

You may experience some discomfort after getting braces or aligners, especially in the first few days as your teeth begin to move. This discomfort is usually mild and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any soreness, and your orthodontist can provide tips for easing discomfort.

How do I care for my teeth while wearing braces?

Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Brushing after every meal, using floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean between the braces, and avoiding sticky or hard foods that can damage the braces are important steps. Regular dental checkups are also recommended to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout your treatment.

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Straightening Smiles in Manchester & Hamden, CT

For most patients, straight teeth equal a beautiful smile. But did you know that a properly aligned bite is also healthier? Overlapped, crooked, or rotated teeth create a daily cleaning challenge. Food and bacterial plaque accumulate slowly in the tiny spaces that your toothbrush and floss can't reach. For this reason, at Signature Smiles, we place emphasis on a properly aligned, healthy smile for all of our patients

What Are Popular Orthodontic Treatments?

Orthodontic treatments can address a wide variety of dental problems. Some of the most popular treatments include:

Braces: Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment. They use metal brackets and wires to gradually straighten teeth over time.

Invisalign®: Invisalign® is a clear aligner system that uses a series of custom-made, nearly invisible aligners to straighten teeth.

Retainers: Retainers are used to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment after braces are removed.

Headgear: Headgear is sometimes used in conjunction with braces to help correct severe dental problems.

What Are the Benefits of Orthodontics?

There are many benefits of orthodontic treatment, including:

Improved function: Orthodontic treatment can correct problems with your bite, making it easier to chew and speak.

Improved self-esteem: Orthodontic treatment can improve your appearance, which can in turn boost your self-esteem and confidence.

Improved oral health: Orthodontic treatment can improve your oral health by correcting problems that can make brushing and flossing difficult. This can reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease.

Reduced risk of injury: Orthodontic treatment can correct problems that could cause you to bite your tongue or lip, or injure your cheeks or gums.

The Invisalign® Treatment Process

The first step in orthodontic treatment is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. During the consultation, the orthodontist will examine your teeth and mouth, take X-rays, and ask about your medical history. The orthodontist will then develop a treatment plan based on your individual needs.

If you and the orthodontist decide Invisalign® is right for you, the next step is to take impressions of your teeth. These impressions are used to create custom-made aligners. Once that is complete, you can expect to receive a set of aligners every 1-2 weeks. Each aligner must be worn for 22 hours a day with the exception of during meals.

Proud Blue Diamond Invisalign® Providers

At Signature Smiles, we’re proud to be Blue Diamond Invisalign® providers, a distinction that reflects our extensive experience in creating beautiful smiles using clear aligners. This level of expertise means our patients can trust they’re in capable hands for top-tier orthodontic care. We're committed to delivering exceptional results with a treatment plan customized to each individual’s needs.

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Common Questions About Orthodontics

What is the best age to start orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can begin at any age, but many professionals recommend having a first evaluation around age 7. Early treatment may help correct issues before they worsen. However, adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment as well, with options like clear aligners and braces available for all ages.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?

The length of orthodontic treatment depends on the complexity of your case. On average, treatment can take between 12 and 24 months. Your orthodontist will provide a more accurate timeline after assessing your individual needs.
Will orthodontic treatment be painful?

You may experience some discomfort after getting braces or aligners, especially in the first few days as your teeth begin to move. This discomfort is usually mild and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any soreness, and your orthodontist can provide tips for easing discomfort.
How do I care for my teeth while wearing braces?

Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Brushing after every meal, using floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean between the braces, and avoiding sticky or hard foods that can damage the braces are important steps. Regular dental checkups are also recommended to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout your treatment.

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