Often, people believe crooked teeth are solely a cosmetic issue. But in reality, misalignment, crowding, and bite issues can have impacts far beyond the outside appearance. They can cause jaw and ear pain, headaches, and even negatively impact the types of food you can eat—which can significantly affect your overall health.
Our expert team at Klar Holmes & Associates Orthodontics offers patient-focused care for optimal outcomes. We assess your concerns using the latest technology and customized treatment plans. We consider both form and function when designing your best smile.
What Does Getting Braces Entail?
While everyone’s orthodontic journey is unique, the general process is similar. Here’s what you can expect as you begin the process of getting braces.
Initial fitting
Your initial appointment, or “bonding day,” will take a bit longer than future visits. Our team will prepare the surfaces of your teeth and bond each bracket into place. They’ll then place the arch wires, as well as any bands and elastics. Before you head home, you’ll receive home care instructions and schedule your next follow-up appointment.
Adjusting to your braces
A little discomfort is entirely normal for the first few days after getting your braces on. You can use over-the-counter pain relief medication to help with general soreness, and orthodontic wax if you’re having issues with the brackets rubbing against your lips.
Follow-up visits
As you progress through your treatment, you’ll need to visit our office regularly. We’ll make necessary adjustments, including changing the arch wires and bands and evaluating your progress. These visits will continue until you’re all set to have your braces removed.
Daily Life with Braces
While most of your daily routine will stay the same, you’ll need to make a few adjustments while wearing your braces.
Eating with braces
Certain foods can damage your brackets or wires, especially those that are sticky or hard. We’ll provide you with a list of things to avoid to keep your teeth healthy and your braces in good shape.
Oral hygiene
While in braces, it's crucial to pay extra attention to your oral care. At home, follow the guidelines we give you regarding brushing and flossing. And be sure to visit your general dentist for preventive care to avoid cavities or plaque buildup.
Appointments and adjustments
Make sure to keep your follow-up appointments at our office so you can stay on track with your treatment. We need to see you regularly to ensure everything is progressing smoothly and to make any small adjustments needed.
Types of Braces for Kids, Teens & Adults
Metal braces
Whether you have minor tooth misalignment or severe bite problems, traditional brackets-and-wires braces can fix it all. That’s why metal braces remain the go-to option for many of our patients.
Clear braces
Clear braces offer an excellent alternative for those looking for a more discreet option. Since the brackets are clear or tooth-colored, they blend in better than metal braces.
Invisalign® clear aligners
Invisalign® clear aligners are nearly invisible, making them a great choice for teens and adults who want to avoid the conventional “braces” look. Plus, they’re removable, so eating, brushing, and flossing are a breeze. They work well for mild to moderate cases, although they may not be ideal for more complex treatments.
Customized treatment plans
Your teeth are as unique as you are, so it makes sense that your orthodontic treatment plan should be unique, too. We’ll consider essential factors from your aesthetic goals to overall bite and functionality when designing a plan to get you the smile you’ve always wanted.
Good Tips for a Smooth Braces Journey
Your braces journey may have its uncomfortable moments, especially right after adjustments or wire changes. Here are a few tips to help minimize any discomfort:
- Avoid hard or sticky foods
- Use orthodontic wax to relieve any discomfort from the brackets. Rinsing with salt water
can help, too.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers or apply ice packs or cold compresses to the outside of your cheek for general pain or swelling.
Most discomfort should be short-lived. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Locations We Serve
- Hilltop
- Suffolk
- Chesapeake
- Virginia Beach
- Hampton Roads
- Chesapeake
- Hilltop
- Oceanfront
- Sandbridge
- Redmill
- Norfolk
- Tidewater
- Town Center
- Deep Creek
- Moyock
- & surrounding areas
Ready to Begin Your Braces Journey?
If you’re ready to start your orthodontic treatment, give our office a call today to set up your consultation. We can’t wait to be a part of your journey.
Schedule a consultation today!
FAQ
Q1. How much is the cost of braces in Chesapeake?
The cost depends on the type of braces you choose and the length of your treatment. Our team at Klar Holmes & Associates Orthodontics will guide you on the costs after we meet for your consultation. We also offer flexible payment plans.
Q2. Where can adults get braces in Suffolk?
The perfect place for adults to get braces in Suffolk is at Klar Holmes & Associates Orthodontics. We work with patients of all ages to correct misalignment and bite problems, offering a full range of options, including metal and ceramic braces, as well as Invisalign® clear aligners.
Q3. Where can kids get braces in Suffolk?
Klar Holmes & Associates Orthodontics provides specialized care for kids in our gentle and compassionate practice. We tailor treatment to fit your child’s needs from start to finish.