General dentists are the most common type of dental professional. They see patients of all ages and focus their efforts on providing primary dental care. One treatment that falls under primary dental care is braces. Braces are used to correct uneven bites and realign crooked teeth. With the help of a general dentist, treatment can be seamless. Ready to learn how dentists prepare patients for braces?

How general dentists prepare patients for braces

The following information can be helpful to patients who are preparing to undergo braces. Keep reading to find out more.

The impressions

The main way that general dentists prepare before giving patients braces is to take impressions of the upper and lower arches. Impressions are necessary in order to ensure the braces fit properly and so that the treatment plan can be created. Once impressions are taken using a mold system, they are sent off to a dental lab. The lab relies on the impressions to create the necessary pieces for the braces treatment.

Reviewing oral hygiene

One of the most important things that general dentists do to prepare patients for braces is to review oral hygiene. Braces can make oral hygiene routines a bit more involved than most people realize. Because brackets and wires fill the mouth, it is crucial that patients still abide by a strict routine of brushing and flossing when possible.

A general dentist will usually recommend that patients brush their teeth after every meal when wearing braces. Food is much more likely to get stuck in the teeth once braces are put on. Flossing can be a lot more difficult because of the wires, but general dentists recommend that patients do their best. Additionally, most general dentist offices allow patients to be seen for regular cleanings on a more frequent basis to ensure that the teeth remain healthy even throughout wearing braces.

Discussing the treatment plan

The treatment plan will be outlined and reviewed by the general dentist. Things like timelines and expectations will be discussed so that the patient knows exactly what to expect from the entire process. Most patients are to wear their braces for a year or so to ensure that they have time to take full effect.

Braces can be a pretty lengthy process, but knowing exactly what to expect beforehand can be helpful. When patients have a better understanding of their treatment plan, they are less likely to get anxious or feel surprised by certain things.

Questions, concerns and recommendations

Another way that general dentists will prepare patients before administering braces is to go over questions and concerns. A lot of patients, both children and adults, will have questions about the treatment plan, as well as how to adjust day-to-day. There may be concerns about oral hygiene or discomfort, which the general dentist can also address.

General dentists are also able to provide recommendations and tips about adjusting to the braces. One recommendation to note is that certain foods will have to be avoided to ensure that the braces do not get damaged.

Reach out today!

General dentists are great resources to make use of when needing braces. Reach out today to get started.

Are you considering braces in the Long Branch area? Get more information at https://www.dentistinlongbranch.com.

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