Having crooked teeth is something that a lot of people struggle with. Whether it be something that can affect the structure of your mouth, like an overbite or an underbite, or just a cosmetic detail to fix, such as a snaggletooth, braces are an option for anyone looking to make a change to their smile.
There are many options and ways to approach getting braces, so use this step-by-step guide as a start to attaining straighter teeth:

1. Get a referral from your general dentist for braces
The first step to getting braces is seeing your dentist and asking if you need them, as well as where you should go to get them. Get a referral from your general dentist for braces, as they can recommend a good orthodontist or a few different options for braces. In all, making sure you qualify for braces and getting a dentist recommendation for what type of braces and doctor to use will make the process much safer.

2. Attending a complimentary orthodontic consultation
After the recommendation, making an appointment at the orthodontist in order to get a quote on the braces and to make sure you like the doctor is important. An orthodontist is there for you to ask questions and at the start and throughout the process of braces, so enjoying the doctor and getting their opinions is a good start.

3. Developing a treatment plan
At the consultation, there will be time for developing a treatment plan and laying out the way you will go through the braces process. During this step, you can go through the different options of braces, such as the traditional wire ones, that average around $5,000, or more affordable braces and clear aligners that could cost around $2,000 – $3,000. Either way, choosing the braces that are right for you is important before starting your braces journey.

4. Placing your braces
After consultation and choosing your braces, you will make another appointment in order to put the braces on. If the traditional wire braces are chosen, it will be about a 2-hour long appointment where each brace is attached, and the wires are put in. Though it is a long process, it is worth it in order to start the journey to straighter, healthier teeth.

5. Oral care and maintenance at home
Taking care of braces at home is just as important as working on the braces in the orthodontist’s office. The first few days of braces will be a little painful, so working with things such as braces wax, or wax that will cover any sharp parts of the braces, will make the process a lot easier.
Making sure to brush properly is also very important, as your teeth under the braces will not change color throughout the year or so they are on. To prevent discoloration, make sure you are bushing well. Flossing with braces is also hard but getting floss threaders to go under the wires will make it an easier process. Keeping up on our oral hygiene becomes even more necessary when your braces are on.

6. Adjustments and checkups
Keeping up on orthodontist appointments throughout the process of braces will allow them to work to their full extent. Ever so often, you will need to go back to the doctor to get your braces tightened and get your orthodontist to check up on your progress.

Braces may be a long process but keeping up with them and making the most of the experience will allow your smile to shine even brighter with nice, straight teeth.