Orthodontic Treatment Phases

Orthodontic irregularities are extremely common and vary in their complexity. In the case of a severe irregularity, the orthodontist may work in conjunction with a maxillofacial surgeon or another dental professional to correctly realign the teeth and underlying jawbone. Malocclusions or misaligned bites, however, are usually treated by the orthodontist alone. Orthodontic treatment for malocclusion typically occurs in several stages:

Phase 1: Planning

• A complete dental and medical history review

• Castings or bite impressions of the teeth

The goal of the first several visits to the orthodontist is to determine an exact diagnosis and plan expedient treatment. The orthodontic evaluation usually includes:

• A complete dental and medical history review

• Castings or bite impressions of the teeth

• Panoramic x-rays of the jaws and teeth

• Additional imaging of the face, teeth and jaw joints

Phase 2: Active Treatment

Once a specific diagnosis has been made, the orthodontist applies a device to realign the teeth which is either fixed or removable. The best known type of fixed device is traditional dental braces which use brackets interconnected by an archwire. Continual gentle pressure is applied on the teeth by the gradual tightening of the archwire. Regular orthodontic adjustments are necessary to continue the straightening process.

Removable devices include the Invisalign® system and headgear. These devices should be worn for a specified number of hours each day. The success of these removable appliances largely depends on the motivation of the wearer. The orthodontist monitors and adjusts the device at regular appointments.

Phase 3: Retention

When treatment is complete, the braces and appliances are removed. The orthodontist then delivers a retainer. The retainer ensures that the teeth do not regress back to their original positioning. The retainer is worn for a specified number of hours each day to allow the bone to reform and stabilize the teeth in their new, correct alignment.

If you have questions or concerns about the progression of orthodontic treatment, please contact our office.

Leave us a Review

Contact Us

We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.

Testimonials

Dr Johnson put braces on me a little over a year ago and I honestly can't say anything but good stuff about her and her staff. She's a straight shooter that shoots from the hip and tells you like it is and let's you know upfront what the process will be like and what she'll try her best to accomplish but she will tell you that she's not a magician either. For me that sealed the deal and won my business and friendship then and there. She doesn't over promise and under deliver, instead she's realistic about things and tells you she'll do her best which is all anyone can do or expect someone to do. I am extremely pleased with her best thus far and I still have a little bit left before they come off. She's made my entire process as convenient and painless as possible and I've yet to have anything break, come loose, or poke me. In fact the worst part was figuring out how to eat the first few days of having them on and not being able to bite my nails after 39 years of doing so. Dr Johnson is first class all the way around and does top notch work! I highly recommend her to anyone of any age that is needing braces. She had her work cut out for her with me when she did her initial consultation and 14 months after putting them on she's already over delivered from what I was expecting and she's not finished yet! I have no doubts whatsoever that I chose the perfect orthodontist for me everytime I look in the mirror and smile, or someone else compliments her work when I have my regular cleaning and check ups with my dentist. Siler City is a better place because of her and her services being there for those who need them!

Chris C.

Dr Johnson explain every step they are going to do. My granddaughter was not scared at all. Rosa is a very pleasant and caring person with the kids she also explains the steps that will be going on.

Betty M.

I made an appointment with Chatham Orthodontist for my 6 yr old who has an underbite and grinds her teeth. The receptionist was very friendly when I called to inquire about treatment. She explained to me how my insurance would work and what my option would be. When I arrived she was very friendly and ready for us. Dr. Johnson was great, also really friendly and very thorough. She explained what she thought best and why ans gave me a plan of action. When I mentioned my concern for my other child, she made time to fit him in for an initial consult as well. Again with him she was very thorough. The office experience was friendly and welcoming without being pushy. I left feeling very good about the care of my children’s teeth. I would definitely recommend this office!

Camila M.