Orthodontic Treatment Phases
Orthodontic Treatment Phases
Orthodontic treatments are highly based on your teeth and jaw. During your initial appointments, we’ll explain to you our treatment plan suggestions and provide an estimate for how long treatment will take.
Regardless of how long your treatment is, it will be broken down into three main phases. We'll explain each phase so you know what to expect during your initial consultation and appointments with Dr. Guller.
Orthodontic Treatment Phases
Depending on the severity of your tooth alignment and bite, orthodontic treatments take anywhere from six to 30 months. When just straightening a few teeth, we can generally complete treatment rather quickly. But severe bite problems can take a bit longer to treat.
The dental device you choose to use for your treatment (braces, Invisalign®, etc.) will also affect how long treatment takes. Dr. Guller can help you weigh the pros and cons of different treatment options.
Here’s a look at the three phases of orthodontic treatment and what you can expect during each phase.
Phase 1: Planning
The planning phase is focused on preparing for your orthodontic treatment. It includes getting a better understanding of your current state to plan. We’ll also set goals for your final smile. From there, Dr. Guller plans out how to get from current state to future state. This stage includes the following.
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Medical and dental health review: we’ll review your medical and dental history to make sure you’re ready to undergo orthodontic treatment.
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Impressions: we'll have you bite down on a tray filled with a gel-like substance for several seconds. In that time, the gel hardens and provides a mold of your teeth. This helps your dental team prepare models for how to move the teeth appropriately.
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Panoramic X-rays: we’ll take panoramic X-rays to better understand your jaw, joints, teeth, etc. We’ll also be able to see the roots and locations of each tooth to plan out treatment carefully.
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Projecting face and jaw changes: we’ll take photos of your jaw and face to create computer-generated images of how your face will be affected by treatment. With some patients, bite problems can show outside the mouth and we like to know what that will look like when treatment is complete.
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Photos: we take before and after photos that show your progress and change to your smile. Patients find these motivating as they go through the treatment process and we love seeing the transformation.
Phase 2: Active Treatment
Now that your orthodontist has a clear view of everything, you’re ready to start your orthodontic treatment. You’ll get your braces, Invisalign® trays or orthodontic device at this point.
Throughout the active treatment phase, you’ll meet with your dentist to check in on treatment and keep things moving along. You should do your best to keep your scheduled appointments with your dentist as following the schedule is important to getting the results you want. These appointment intervals are set to optimize the time it takes for treatment.
Phase 3: Retention
The final phase of your orthodontic treatment is one of the most important phases. During this part of treatment, your orthodontic device will be removed, and you'll be fitted for a retainer. The retainer will hold your teeth and bone in place to preserve your smile. Be sure to follow your dentist's recommendations for wearing your retainers as failing to do so could lead to your teeth shifting and becoming crooked.
Don’t let any of the phases of orthodontic treatment intimidate or concern you. Treatments are highly successful and minimally invasive. For the most part, you’ll go about your normal life throughout treatment.
Get started working toward a healthier, straighter smile by booking your orthodontic consultation with Dr. Guller today.
"I have been a patient of Pascack Dental Arts for ten years. Having not just routine care but caps and four implants for which I am today happy, being able to eliminate the need of a denture. My experience with Pascack Dental Arts has been excellent!"
Robert Von Bargen
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Nancy Mapes
"A little over three years ago, my older daughter Carolyn, had a bicycle accident. One of her permanent front teeth was actually knocked out. We called the office and they told us to come in immediately. It was about 6 p.m. Everyone was concerned and helpful. Dr.Guller reinserted her tooth. Needless to say, we were very frequent visitors to this office. Everyone knew us and always asked how Carolyn was doing. With everyone’s long-term help, Carolyn’s teeth look great!
Our entire family comes to Pascack Dental Arts. It’s a great place for complete dental care."
Barbara Maskin
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