You’ve probably heard how much tightening appointments for dental braces can hurt, which is what’s causing you to feel so anxious before your visit. Knowing what to expect can ease your worries and even help you understand that it’s not as bad as so many people make it out to be. The unknown can be scary, so get all the major questions you have about your appointment answered below.
Why is it Necessary to Get Braces Tightened?
Undergoing any orthodontic treatment will require routine adjustment to make sure that the right amount of force is being applied to slowly position your teeth into their ideal spots in your mouth. During these appointments, your dentist will make sure that you’re on the right track to having a straightened grin, examine the health of your mouth, replace or repair any broken brackets, and adjust your braces as necessary.
How Will My Dentist Tighten My Braces?
The appointment will start by your dentist evaluating your teeth to check how much pressure your braces are placing on them. As your teeth begin to move into a more aligned position, the amount of force will change, which makes it necessary for them to be adjusted for maximum effectiveness. They’ll remove all the rubber bands from your brackets that are holding the wire in place and then remove the wire. They’ll check to see how your teeth have moved and determine whether to put a new wire in your mouth or reuse the original one. They’ll make any necessary adjustments and place it back in your mouth by attaching it to your brackets with a new set of rubber bands to hold it in place.
Will it Hurt?
Because your dentist will add slightly more pressure to your braces to make up for the looseness caused by your straightening teeth, you’ll most likely feel some tenderness after your appointment. This is completely normal and means that your braces are working and your teeth are becoming more aligned. You will go through a short adjustment period of a few days as you get used to the way they feel. If you experience any discomfort or pain though, just take over-the-counter pain medication to help relieve it.
How Long Will My Visit Take?
Typically, appointments for braces tightening last about a half-hour, so not very long at all!
How Often Will My Braces Need Tightening?
Depending on your unique needs and the severity of your misalignment or bite problems, the frequency that you’ll need your braces tightened will vary. However, most dentists recommend coming in about every four weeks.
Now that you know what to expect from your visit, you understand that there’s absolutely nothing to fear! Tightening your braces is a simple part of your orthodontic treatment so that you can enjoy a straighter and improved smile, faster. By attending these appointments regularly and keeping up with your dentist’s timeline, the treatment will be a breeze!
About the Author
Dr. Dalia Georgy offers both dental and orthodontic services to her patients because she wants them to be proud of their smiles. She offers complimentary orthodontic consultations because she believes that everyone should have access to straighter and healthier teeth. She has undergone extensive specialty training in braces and taken countless courses from F.O.R.C.E. Int. and Gerety Orthodontic Seminars. For questions or to schedule your complimentary consultation, visit Glenpool Braces’ website or call 918-201-1414.