The Complete Guide to What Happens Before and After Braces
Introduction
Orthodontic care it a life changing process that not only changes your smile, but oral health, proper occlusion and confidence. Whether you are a teenager, adult or parent reading up for your child, knowing what comes before and after the braces can help set a realistic expectation and get you ready for each phase.
In this definitive guide, from the consultation to the end game, we’ll answer all your questions so you can brace yourself with confidence for whatever orthodontics throw at you.
1. Why Orthodontic Treatment Is Important
Braces serve a purpose beyond aesthetic value. The orthodontic treatment of braces addresses multiple dental problems including malocclusion and overcrowding and gaps and overbite and underbite and crossbite. Untreated dental conditions will result in severe oral health issues which include tooth decay and gum disease and jaw pain and problems with chewing and speaking.
Common Issues Braces Treat:
Crooked or crowded teeth
Gaps between teeth
Overbite and underbite
Crossbite and open bite
Jaw misalignment
Improving these issues can lead to better long-term dental health and an improved quality of life.
2. What Happens Before Braces?
A. Initial Consultation
Your orthodontic journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. This includes:
Dental examination
Digital photographs of your teeth and face
X-rays to view roots and jaw alignment
3D scanning or dental impressions
B. Treatment Plan
The orthodontist will develop a customized treatment plan. You’ll discuss:
Type of braces suitable (metal, ceramic, lingual, clear aligners)
Estimated treatment duration
Total cost and financing options
Any preparatory procedures (e.g., extractions or spacers)
C. Preparatory Procedures
Some patients require specific procedures before braces:
Tooth extractions for severe crowding
Dental cleaning to remove plaque or tartar
Spacers to make room for metal bands
Orthodontic separators to ease pressure between molars
Knowing these steps before and after braces ensures a smooth and successful process.
3. Types of Braces Available
There are several types of braces, each with its pros and cons:
A. Metal Braces
Most common and effective for complex cases
Durable and budget-friendly
Modern versions are smaller and more comfortable
B. Ceramic Braces
Blend with tooth color
Less visible but more fragile than metal
C. Lingual Braces
Placed behind the teeth
Invisible but harder to clean and adjust
D. Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign)
Removable and nearly invisible
Best for mild to moderate misalignment
Requires strict discipline and maintenance
Choosing the right option based on your condition is vital for long-term success before and after braces.
4. What to Expect During Treatment
A. Installation Day
Fitting braces usually takes 1–2 hours. The orthodontist:
Cleans and dries the teeth
Applies bonding glue
Places brackets and wires
Adds ligatures or elastics
Discomfort is normal after installation but subsides in a few days.
B. Regular Adjustments
Every 4–8 weeks, you’ll visit the orthodontist to:
Tighten or replace wires
Switch out elastics
Monitor progress
These appointments are crucial to keep your treatment on track.
C. Oral Care During Braces
Maintaining oral hygiene is more challenging but essential. Key practices include:
Brushing after every meal
Flossing daily with orthodontic tools
Using fluoride mouthwash
Avoiding sticky and hard foods
Neglecting oral care can lead to white spots, cavities, or gum disease—even if your teeth look great after braces.
5. The Emotional and Physical Journey
A. Adjusting Emotionally
The first few weeks can be emotionally taxing:
Speech changes
Increased self-consciousness
Dietary restrictions
But over time, most people adjust completely.
B. Managing Discomfort
Discomfort typically arises:
Right after installation
After adjustments
From poking wires or loose brackets
Over-the-counter pain relievers, orthodontic wax, and salt water rinses can provide relief.
6. The “Before and After Braces” Transformation
This phase is where the magic becomes visible.
A. Physical Transformation
Before and after braces comparisons are dramatic:
Straighter teeth
Aligned jaw and bite
Balanced facial symmetry
Reduced gaps or overlaps
B. Health Improvements
Post-treatment benefits extend beyond appearance:
Easier to clean teeth
Reduced risk of gum disease
Better digestion due to improved chewing
Relief from jaw tension or speech issues
C. Emotional Impact
The confidence boost is often the most rewarding part:
Smiling without hesitation
Speaking clearly and comfortably
Improved self-esteem in social and professional settings
7. What Happens After Braces?
A. Braces Removal
The removal process is quick and painless. The orthodontist:
Loosens and removes brackets and wires
Polishes away bonding glue
May take new photos and scans
The results are immediate and striking.
B. Retainers: A Lifetime Companion
After treatment, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep teeth in their new positions. There are two types:
Fixed Retainers: A small wire glued behind teeth
Removable Retainers: Clear trays worn mostly at night
Skipping this step can undo all the work, making retainers essential in the before and after braces story.
8. Maintaining Your New Smile
A. Long-Term Oral Care
Now that your teeth are aligned, it’s critical to maintain them:
Brush and floss daily
Visit your dentist every 6 months
Use a water flosser for deep cleaning
Consider whitening treatments, if desired
B. Lifestyle Changes
With braces off, you can resume:
Eating crunchy or sticky foods
Playing wind instruments more comfortably
Smiling freely in photos
But always protect your smile during sports with a mouthguard, even after braces are removed.
9. Common Questions About Before and After Braces
Q1: How long do I have to wear braces?
Treatment typically lasts 12 to 36 months, depending on case complexity and patient compliance.
Q2: Is the change really that noticeable?
Yes! The before and after braces transformation often surprises even the most skeptical patients.
Q3: Can adults get braces?
Absolutely. One in five orthodontic patients is an adult.
Q4: What if I lose my retainer?
Contact your orthodontist immediately. Delays can allow teeth to shift back.
10. Real-Life Before and After Braces Stories
Emma (Age 15)
Before Braces: Severe overbite and crowding
Treatment: 18 months with metal braces
After Braces: Perfectly aligned teeth and improved speech
Jason (Age 29)
Before Braces: Mild spacing and a crossbite
Treatment: 14 months with clear aligners
After Braces: Enhanced facial symmetry and newfound confidence
Layla (Age 42)
Before Braces: Gapped teeth and shifting bite
Treatment: Ceramic braces for 24 months
After Braces: Closed gaps and a youthful smile
These stories show how life-changing orthodontics can be. Each patient experienced a profound transformation before and after braces.
11. The Financial Aspect of Braces
Braces are a significant investment. Costs vary based on:
Type of braces
Treatment length
Geographic location
Insurance coverage
Average prices range:
Metal braces: $3,000–$7,000
Ceramic braces: $4,000–$8,000
Lingual braces: $8,000–$10,000
Clear aligners: $3,000–$6,000
Many clinics offer monthly payment plans or financing options.
12. Tips for a Smooth Journey Before and After Braces
Stay consistent with appointments
Follow your orthodontist’s advice
Keep a braces care kit (wax, toothbrush, mirror)
Take progress photos to track changes
Don’t compare your journey with others
Success depends on cooperation between you and your orthodontist.
Conclusion
The passage before and after braces is of patience, discipline and change of face. Although there may be some discomfort and adjustment along the way, the result is a healthier, functional and beautiful smile for the rest of his or her life.
Whether you are just beginning or approaching the finish, knowledge is power, and you can make better decisions if you are informed. With attention and care, your post-braces smile can be forever.
Ready to take the first step? Book your consultation and become one of the millions of people now living with before and after braces smiles.
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