Part of our practice involves taking proactive measures to straighten and align teeth. To help people enjoy the beautiful smile they deserve, we offer orthodontic treatments that take time and require ongoing care in the form of regular checkups.

Up to 4 million Americans have braces, and approximately 25 percent are 18 or older. If you are considering a corrective orthodontic treatment, we hope the following information about the process and the importance of regular checkups proves helpful.

How Do Orthodontic Treatments Work?

There are various orthodontic treatments available, including traditional metal braces and clear aligners. Both of these options have pros and cons. For example, the benefits of traditional metal and rubber band braces include securing the movement of teeth in place. By that same token, food too often gets stuck in them, making cleaning your teeth difficult, and traditional braces may leave stains after removal.

Clear aligners are also customized to fit your teeth and bite with precision. They can be taken out before eating, minimizing the problem of food getting stuck. Daily dental hygiene practices remain relatively unchanged when patients opt for clear aligners; no post-treatment stains remain. If you choose clear aligners, multiple fittings will be needed to encourage your teeth to shift gradually into a straight posture.

Reasons for Regular Checkups

It’s essential to remember that orthodontic treatments, such as metal braces or clear aligners, are different from other dental procedures. From beginning to end, the process typically takes 12 to 36 months. During that period, checkups allow dental professionals to manage the following.

Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

Traditional braces pose a significant oral hygiene challenge because small bits of food get caught in them. Wearing permanent braces also makes it difficult to brush and floss. If you select metal braces, scheduling more frequent cleanings improves outcomes. Removable orthodontic products call for fewer cleanings. However, checkups allow clearing away trapped food particles that may get caught between shifting teeth.

Proactive Cavity Detection

Failing to see the dentist during an orthodontic treatment program opens the door to wide-reaching problems. As plaque and acids lie hidden or go unnoticed, the protective enamel on your teeth erodes. This leaves otherwise bright, healthy teeth vulnerable to cavities. Not keeping routine dentist’s office visits results in dark stains that require whitening treatments. Sometimes, a lack of professional cleanings can result in gum disease.

Proper Teeth Alignment

Orthodontic treatments include schedules that serve multiple purposes. The dentist examines the teeth and gums for telltale signs of health issues. Another facet of these visits involves making the adjustments needed to keep teeth moving in a positive direction.

Metal braces are adjusted in place to apply subtle pressure. Clear aligner orthodontic treatments usually require a new, customized set to influence tooth migration. Skipping visits impedes the alignment process.

Avoid Prolonged Treatments

Missed orthodontic appointments typically extend the process. If the procedure requires a monthly adjustment, it must be made up. That means a one-year orthodontic treatment now runs for 13 months or longer.

It takes longer because not keeping appointments could lead to complications. For instance, the process may need to be put on hold to deal with a cavity or emerging gum disease. The best way to stay on track is to craft a realistic schedule with your dentist and stick with it.

Orthodontic Visit Frequency

The orthodontic treatment plan must reflect the unique aspects of each person’s teeth and jaw—the same holds for how often a patient and dentist schedule office visits. Generally, orthodontic checkups occur every 4–6 weeks. Frequency may increase if braces present an oral hygiene obstacle or other challenges present themselves.

Contact Us for Orthodontic Care in Melbourne

If you or your child needs orthodontic treatment in Melbourne, FL, contact us today to schedule an appointment!