By starting orthodontic treatment, you have taken the first step to maintain the health of your mouth and teeth. Orthodontics may seem a little complicated at first, but it's actually easier than you think. Familiarity with the first session of orthodontics will help reduce your anxiety and confidence a lot.
If you still have questions or concerns about the process and steps of orthodontic treatment, be sure to discuss them with your orthodontist. In the rest of the article, we will review all the important points and necessary information for the first orthodontic session together.
First, how long does orthodontics take?
The first orthodontic session usually lasts between one and one and a half hours, and in this session, initial assessment and consultation are done. The purpose of this meeting is to introduce the patient to the orthodontic specialist and explain the treatment steps.
In this meeting, the orthodontist examines your records and determines the appropriate treatment plan using OPG (radiography of the entire teeth) and cephalometry (photographs of the jaw). If you haven't taken these photos before, it will probably be the first time you take them.
This is also a good opportunity to ask the orthodontist all your questions about the treatment process, duration of orthodontic treatment, costs and expectations and listen carefully to his explanations. This session is an important foundation for starting a successful and stress-free treatment.
First session of orthodontics
The first orthodontic session is the most important step to start treatment and includes several key steps, each of which has a specific role in treatment planning. In the following, we explain these steps in simple language:
At the beginning of the session, you will fill out a questionnaire about your medical history, medications and dental history. This information helps the orthodontist to start the treatment with complete confidence and safety.
The specialist examines the condition of the teeth, jaw and gums. Points such as tooth crowding, the distance between them and the way the jaws are positioned are checked to get a more accurate picture of the treatment needs.
3. Photography and diagnostic images
To fully evaluate the teeth and jaws, radiographic photographs such as panoramic and cephalometric are taken. Sometimes, intra-oral and extra-oral photos are also necessary to check the details of the face and the structure of the teeth.
Registering the condition of the teeth by molding or digital scanning
To start the treatment, the current condition of the teeth is registered. This is done either by traditional molding or by 3D digital scanning, which is more accurate and makes it easier to plan the treatment path.
After collecting information, the specialist will provide you with a suitable treatment plan. At this stage, the treatment options (metal braces, invisible orthodontics, Damon, etc.), the approximate duration of the treatment, cost and care tips are explained.
Note that the time of each stage may be shorter or longer depending on the condition of each patient.
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Before the first orthodontic session, following a few simple tips will help the session go more smoothly and effectively:
- Collection of medical and dental records
- Bringing radiographs if available
- Note questions and concerns
- Maintaining complete hygiene of the mouth and teeth
- Mental and spiritual preparation
- Comfortable and suitable clothes
- Companion presence if needed
Does the first session of orthodontics hurt?
The first orthodontic session is usually painless. As we said, in this meeting, things like checking and cleaning the teeth, preparing them and installing brackets or digital scanning are done. Usually, there is no need for anesthesia and these procedures are easily performed.
Reduce Stress in the first session of orthodontics
The first orthodontic session may seem a little stressful, but with a little preparation, you can keep yourself calm. A simple way to reduce anxiety is to be aware of the treatment steps. When you know what will be done in the first session, such as examination, photography or molding, you will feel more confident.
Talking to a specialist and asking your questions will also reduce your anxiety. Simple techniques such as deep breathing or the presence of a companion can also help you relax. Be sure to eat a light meal before visiting so that you have energy and don't worry about physical weakness. Remember that the initial stages are usually painless, so go into the session calmly.
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The first orthodontic session is the best time to ask all the important questions about the treatment and its steps. It is recommended to make a list of your questions before visiting so that you don't miss anything.
A few key questions to ask are:
- How much will the total cost of the treatment be and does it include all steps?
- Are there additional or additional costs?
- Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment or not?
- What are the exact steps of the treatment?
- How long is the treatment period and how long is it necessary to use orthodontics?
- Do I need a headgear or other aids and what are the conditions for using them?
- How much will orthodontics affect my eating or speaking?
- How often should I visit for orthodontic adjustment?
- What should I do if one of the brackets comes loose?
- After orthodontic removal, how often do I need a checkup?
- Can the teeth be moved again after the end of the treatment?
By asking these questions, you will get a clear picture of the treatment process and you will be more relaxed to start orthodontics.
Concluding remarks
The first orthodontic session is the starting point of your journey to have healthy and regular teeth. By attending this meeting, you will not only get to know your orthodontic specialist, but you will also have the opportunity to ask questions about the treatment process, costs, and care tips and address your concerns.
Remember that preparation before the meeting and asking important questions will make you have a comfortable and stress-free experience and you will be able to make better decisions about continuing treatment. Every stage of orthodontics, from the first session to the end of the treatment, is a step to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile, so enter this path with peace and full awareness.
