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If you have crooked teeth or a misaligned bite, it can affect more than just the appearance of your smile. The health of your mouth can also be affected because straight teeth with an aligned bite are much easier to keep clean, helping to keep your mouth healthier overall. If your teeth are crowded, crooked, or uneven teeth, getting braces in Bloomington can provide the results you’re looking for.
How Do I Get Braces?
If you’re interested in straightening your teeth, seeking treatment from an experienced dentist you can trust is the best way to start. At our office, our braces dentist will work with you closely to determine which treatment option produces the results you want, in as little time as possible. During your consultation, you’ll receive a thorough dental examination and a series of X-rays of your mouth.
How Are Braces Put On?
The process of getting braces put on is very similar, regardless of the type you choose. To begin, your orthodontist or dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth and dry them. Next, bonding glue will be applied to your teeth. This helps attach the brackets to your teeth. Although the glue may taste unpleasant, it doesn’t pose any risks. For the final step, the archwire (the wire that attaches to your teeth) is placed into the brackets and is securely held with elastic bands.
After treatment, your dentist or orthodontist will provide you with detailed instructions about caring for your braces. This can include how to properly brush and floss your teeth and avoiding certain foods, such as gummy candy, caramel, and popcorn, which can be difficult to remove and may get stuck in the brackets and wires. You’ll also need to visit our office for scheduled check-ups, where your dentist or orthodontist will make adjustments to your braces as needed.
What Are the Different Types of Orthodontic Treatment?
We offer a variety of options to best meet the needs of our patients. Take a look at the different types of braces we provide:
Metal braces: These are the most common type, consisting of traditional brackets and wires. This option is more effective for more complex orthodontic problems like severe overcrowding.
Ceramic braces: This type is very similar to metal brackets and wires; however, they’re white or clear, helping them to blend into your teeth and be less noticeable.
Invisible braces: Invisalign is the most common invisible orthodontic treatment, and it consists of clear plastic trays that gently guide your teeth into a more ideal position. The aligners are usually worn for about 20–22 hours every day and can be removed while eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
What Is the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment?
Now that you have a general idea of how braces are put on and the different types available, you’re probably wondering, “How much do braces cost?” There are many factors that can affect your total costs, such as the severity of your case, the type of orthodontic treatment you receive, where you live, and whether you have dental insurance. If you have dental insurance, we recommend contacting your provider for more information about orthodontic coverage.
We’ll help you find an affordable plan that best meets your needs, and our office also offers flexible payment options and financing options to help fit treatment costs into your budget. When you come into our office for a consultation, your dentist or orthodontist can provide you with a cost estimate after examining your mouth and discussing your treatment goals.
How Long Does it Take to Get Braces?
Depending on the type of orthodontic treatment you choose, the entire procedure can take between one to two hours. It’s normal for your teeth and gums to feel sore afterward, but this will subside within a week. If your pain lasts longer than a week or isn’t relieved after taking over-the-counter pain medication, please contact our office. Based on the level of correction needed, many of our patients wear their braces for about one to two years.
Will I Need Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment?
For most patients, it takes about an hour to get their braces removed. Once the brackets and wires are taken off, your orthodontist or dentist may recommend wearing a retainer to maintain your results and prevent your teeth from reverting to their original position. The retainer is usually worn every night and holds your teeth in their corrected position. Most of our patients wear their retainer for several years to maintain their straight smiles.
If you’re ready to learn about how you can improve your smile and oral health by getting fitted with braces in Bloomington, contact us to make an appointment. We’ll help you navigate your options so you can achieve a smile you’re proud to show off to the world.
CareCredit
CareCredit is a healthcare credit card designed for your health and wellness needs. Pay for the costs of many treatments and procedures through convenient monthly payments.
