Understanding Your Orthodontic Treatment Timeline
When is Orthodontic Treatment Needed?
Orthodontic treatment is necessary when there are issues with the alignment of your teeth and jaws. While some problems are obvious, others may be more subtle. If you experience any of the following signs, it’s time to schedule a consultation at Teeters Orthodontics:
- Crooked or Misaligned Teeth: Teeth that are crowded, rotated, or overlapping can affect your bite and make it harder to clean your teeth properly, leading to oral health issues.
- Overbite or Underbite: An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively, while an underbite is when the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. Both conditions can cause jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and speech problems.
- Crossbite or Open Bite: A crossbite is when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, and an open bite is when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. These conditions can lead to uneven wear on the teeth and jaw joint problems.
Signs You Need Orthodontic Treatment
If you’re unsure whether you need orthodontic treatment, look out for these common signs:
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting: If you experience pain or discomfort while chewing or biting, it may indicate a misalignment issue that requires orthodontic intervention.
- Speech Problems: Certain orthodontic issues can affect your speech, causing lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Orthodontic treatment can help correct these issues and improve your speech.
- Chronic Jaw Pain: Misaligned teeth and jaws can put undue stress on the jaw joint, leading to chronic pain and discomfort. Orthodontic treatment can help alleviate this pain by properly aligning your teeth and jaws.
Understanding Your Orthodontic Treatment Timeline
We believe in providing our patients with a clear understanding of their orthodontic treatment timeline from the start. While each patient’s journey is unique, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
Orthodontist consultation
Your orthodontic treatment timeline begins with a comprehensive consultation where our specialists assess your oral health, discuss your concerns, and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Planning Phase
After your initial consultation, our team will develop a personalized orthodontic treatment timeline that outlines the expected duration, procedures, and milestones.
Active Treatment Phase (Varies)
Depending on your specific needs, your orthodontic treatment timeline may range from:
- Mild Cases: 6-12 months
- Moderate Cases: 12-18 months
- Complex Cases: 18-30 months
Adjustment Appointments
Throughout your orthodontic treatment timeline, you’ll visit every 4-8 weeks for adjustments and progress monitoring.
Retention Phase (Ongoing)
After your active orthodontic treatment timeline concludes, you’ll enter the retention phase to maintain your new smile, typically wearing retainers as prescribed by your orthodontist.
Teeth Straightening Options: Invisalign and Braces
We offer a range of teeth straightening options tailored to your needs. Two popular options are Invisalign and traditional braces, each with their own orthodontic treatment timeline.
Invisalign
This revolutionary treatment involves wearing of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth into their proper position. Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable, and allow you to maintain your oral hygiene routine without any hassle.
Braces
Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires that apply gentle pressure to move your teeth into alignment. They are highly effective for correcting complex orthodontic issues and are available in various styles, including ceramic braces that blend with your teeth for a more discreet look.
Call Teeters Orthodontics in Peoria, AZ Today
If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it’s essential to seek professional orthodontic care. Dr. Teeters at Teeters Orthodontics in Peoria, AZ has the expertise and experience to provide you with the best treatment options for your unique needs and will guide you through your entire orthodontic treatment. Schedule an appointment now!
