Planning Treatment Options With Your Orthodontist

It’s not unusual to be a little anxious about getting braces. As we go through life, whenever we do something new, we may have some trepidation about moving forward. The best way to deal with the anxiety about braces is to have a frank discussion with your orthodontist. Before your next visit, write down the questions you may have. How long will the treatment last? What type of braces are recommended? How are braces going to affect your lifestyle? You may also have questions about diet, finances or how to care for your braces. And if you’re the parent of a child getting braces, sit down with them and ask them how they feel about getting braces. What are their concerns?

At Baltimore Orthodontic Group every patient has options. Knowing what those options are and how they will affect your treatment plan are important discussion points that we encourage you to have with your orthodontist.

Here are some tips we offer to help with the discussion.

• First, discuss the issues involved in why you need braces in the first place! Are your teeth crooked or crowded? Do you have an overbite? What are the options to remedy the problems? Don’t be afraid to have a serious discussion with your orthodontist.
• You’ll then want to discuss the specifics of a treatment plan and the process itself. Provide feedback to the orthodontist when he or she discusses your treatment plan. You may have other options. You’ll also want to know things like how often your appointments will be scheduled and how long they will take. Find out how closely the orthodontist will work with your dentist. And discuss the level of discomfort you may have.
• It’s also important to set expectations up front. Will you have dietary restrictions? How will you care for your braces? Is there a problem if you are a very active person and/or involved in sports? No question is dumb or too small to ask. The more you know, the better you’ll understand the treatment plan and the smoother it will proceed.
• Most patients also want to know how long the treatment will last and whether there’s a chance that it might be extended. Some patients wear a retainer for a period of time after treatment.
• Finally, talk to your orthodontist about the importance of adhering to the treatment plan. If key events are on the horizon, your orthodontic practice may be able to work around special occasions. It pays to discuss all of this with your provider.

A good relationship between patient and orthodontist is key to a successful treatment plan. Your orthodontist should welcome ALL your questions, and you should receive answers that are clear and honest.