Consultant Specialist Orthodontist with over 25 years' experience
As an experienced orthodontist providing braces Marylebone services, Orthodontist London has guided countless patients through their transformative journey to achieving a perfect smile. Today, we'd like to share our professional insights about what you can expect when getting braces and how to best prepare for this exciting chapter in your life.
The path to your ideal smile begins with a thorough consultation. During this vital first appointment, we'll discuss your concerns and goals whilst examining your teeth and bite. We'll take detailed photographs and X-rays to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.
Modern orthodontics offers various treatment options, and we always ensure our patients understand the benefits of each:
Traditional metal braces
Ceramic braces
Clear aligners
Lingual braces
Before your braces are fitted, we'll schedule a professional cleaning to ensure your teeth are in optimal condition. We recommend maintaining excellent oral hygiene in the weeks leading up to your fitting appointment, as this will give you the best possible start to your treatment.
The fitting process typically takes between 1-2 hours, during which we'll carefully position each bracket and wire. While the procedure isn't painful, you may experience some pressure and mild discomfort. We always ensure our patients are comfortable throughout the process, explaining each step as we progress.
The initial adjustment period is crucial, and as one of the leading providers of braces Marylebone residents trust, we always prepare my patients for what to expect. Your mouth will need time to adapt to your new braces, and you might experience some tenderness for the first few days. This is entirely normal and temporary.
During your treatment journey, maintaining proper oral hygiene becomes more important than ever. We always advise our patients to establish a thorough cleaning routine that includes:
Brushing after every meal using a soft-bristled brush
Using interdental brushes to clean around brackets
Flossing daily with a floss threader
Rinsing with fluoride mouthwash
Whilst wearing braces, you'll need to be mindful of your food choices. As braces Marylebone patients quickly learn, certain foods can damage your brackets or wires. We recommend avoiding:
Hard sweets and crunchy snacks
Sticky or chewy foods
Ice cubes and hard crusty bread
Whole apples and raw carrots (unless cut into small pieces)
Throughout your treatment, we'll schedule regular appointments every 6-8 weeks to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments. These visits are essential for ensuring your treatment stays on track and progresses as planned.
Occasionally, you might experience minor discomfort or issues between appointments. We always provide our patients with orthodontic wax to help with any irritation from wires or brackets. Should you experience any persistent problems, our practice is here to help with prompt attention and care.
Your journey with braces is a significant investment in your future smile and oral health. While the process requires dedication and patience, the results are truly transformative. Remember that every adjustment brings you closer to your goal of achieving a beautiful, confident smile that will last a lifetime. By following these guidelines and maintaining regular communication with our practice, you'll find the process both manageable and rewarding. Your commitment to the treatment plan, combined with our expertise and support, will ensure the best possible outcome for your orthodontic journey.
