What Steps Does Orthodontic Treatment Involve?

Evaluation Phase

• Gather medical and dental records
• Diagnose orthodontic problems through clinical exam
• Make Plaster study models of your teeth
• Take X-rays of your mouth and head

Treatment Phase

• Apply braces to teeth or use other appliances (anything you wear in your mouth like braces or headgear) to gradually reposition teeth, jaws, and chewing muscles
• Adjust wires to put new pressure on your teeth (generally every two to six weeks)
• Wear headgear, bonds, bands, and other appliances as prescribed by your orthodontist

Follow-up Phase

• In many cases, wearing a retainer to keep teeth in new position and allow tissue to stabilize
• Remain under supervision of orthodontist