If you’re thinking about investing in orthodontic treatment for yourself or a loved one, you have lots of options. However, as convenient as this is, it also often leads to patients having several questions about what the process entails. Continue reading below for four questions that you should take with you to your first orthodontic appointment so that you can get the answers you need to comfortably commit to treatment!
1. “What Treatment Options Are Available?”
During your first visit, after your orthodontist has examined your smile and reviewed your case, they’ll go over all the possible treatment options they offer. They’ll cover the specifics of each one, including what devices are involved, the expected timeline, associated costs and anything else relevant. Transparency is important to orthodontists; they won’t suggest something unless they think it’s feasible, and they’ll be sure you’re fully informed before committing to any type of treatment.
2. “Which Treatment Option Is Best for Me?
The best treatment option for you depends on several factors. For instance, patients who only have minor misalignment or bite issues are usually well-suited for clear aligner therapy, while patients with more complex cases tend to need traditional metal braces. Patient preference and lifestyle are also considered. You and your orthodontist will work closely together to decide which route is best for you.
3. “Is This Process Going to Hurt?”
This is something that many patients have concerns about when considering orthodontics, but your provider will be happy to inform you that there’s hardly any pain involved throughout the entire process. While there may be some temporary discomfort after beginning orthodontic treatment, it should quickly resolve on its own – and if it doesn’t, your orthodontist can help!
4. “How Often Will I Need to Come In?”
As part of your treatment plan, you’ll need to come in every few weeks. This frequency depends on your case, as well as if you’re wearing braces or clear aligners, but know that these checkups are a crucial part of the process. They allow your orthodontist to ensure that everything is working as intended, and adjustments can quickly be made as necessary. It also depends on your total treatment timeline; since braces tend to take longer than aligners, that usually ends up meaning more total checkups.
Your orthodontist will let you know if there’s anything else you should keep in mind during your orthodontic journey, including dietary and hygiene guidelines, associated costs, and what to do in an emergency. But the bottom line is that there’s no need to let any uncertainty get in the way of achieving a straighter smile; orthodontic options today are safer, quicker and more effective than ever before!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Orthodontics Holliston, we’re proud to provide families in Holliston and the surrounding area with outstanding orthodontic care! Under the talented leadership of Dr. Sam Alkhoury and Dr. Alan Carlotto, we offer a wide range of orthodontic services for patients of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for yourself or a loved one, feel free to reach out online or by phone for assistance! Telephone: (508) 429-7800.