Understanding the Impact: What Happens if You Miss Orthodontic Adjustments?

Have you ever wished for a straight, healthy smile? If you have orthodontic braces in Columbus, Ohio, you are already halfway there. Braces gradually move your teeth to a straighter position over time. However, perfecting your smile with braces doesn’t mean the orthodontist attaches them to your teeth, and off you go for the magic to begin. Orthodontic braces require regular reviews, adjustments, and visits with your doctor. 

When you get braces from Global Smiles Orthodontics, part of the process is scheduling regular visits with Dr. Edgar Mendieta for regular adjustments. What happens if you miss orthodontic adjustments? For this and more answers about braces adjustments, keep reading.

What are the risks of skipping orthodontic adjustments?

Braces work by applying pressure to your teeth through wire-connected brackets and elastics. As your teeth shift, your braces may lose their effectiveness, so regular visits to your orthodontist for adjustments are crucial throughout your treatment. These appointments also enable us to monitor your treatment progress.

Missing orthodontic adjustments may delay achieving your desired results. For your teeth to move as planned with braces, the tension in the wires and elastics must be changed, too. Once you feel this pressure decreasing, it’s time to have your braces adjusted. Having the correct pressure for your teeth to move as intended is essential.

Moreover, braces require extra help to keep them clean. Although we’ll emphasize that you brush and floss your teeth daily, keeping your wires and brackets free from food debris can be challenging. Orthodontic appointments allow the doctor to clean your mouth thoroughly to remove hardened plaque for an issue-free smile. 

How often should your braces be adjusted?

Every patient is different, so your orthodontist will schedule follow-up appointments depending on your dental needs. At the beginning of your treatment, we’ll assess your orthodontic needs and create an adjustment schedule. The number of adjustments depends on your oral health, age, and jaw or teeth alignment. The average frequency of your visits is between 4-6 weeks, but this will be assessed by your doctor.

What can you do about the pain after adjustments?

Many people find orthodontic adjustments painful and may try to avoid them. The good news is that you can minimize discomfort after we tighten your braces. Eat soft foods for the first few days after the adjustments. You can also take pain medications to manage pain. 

Being gentle when brushing and flossing your teeth can help ease the pain. If you have a low pain tolerance, Dr. Mendieta will recommend orthodontic wax to protect your gums and cheeks from the rough wires. However, if the pain is severe or persistent, it should be promptly addressed by contacting your orthodontist.

Do you have more questions about braces?

Skipping orthodontic adjustments can prolong your treatment and increase the risk of dental emergencies. While trusting your orthodontist is crucial, active participation in your treatment is equally important. If you want to learn more about orthodontic adjustments, call (614) 230-0374 to speak with Dr. Mendieta and his team at Global Smiles Orthodontics.

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