Orthodontic Adjustments

Services > Ortho For Adults

Orthodontic Adjustments

Welcome to WOW Orthodontics, where your perfect smile is our top priority! If you’ve been searching for a professional and patient-focused team to guide your orthodontic care, you’ve come to the right place. Dr. Wendy Oakes specializes in orthodontic adjustments in Brentwood to ensure every patient achieves the best results possible. Orthodontic adjustments are a crucial part of your treatment plan, ensuring that your braces or aligners continue to do their job effectively.

What Are Orthodontic Adjustments?

Orthodontic adjustments in Brentwood are routine appointments made throughout your braces or aligner treatment. During these visits, your orthodontist will make necessary changes to your orthodontic system to gradually adjust your teeth and jaw to the perfect alignment.

For patients with braces, this could mean tightening or replacing wires, bands, or brackets. For aligner patients, adjustments ensure you have the next set of trays and refine any treatment details as needed. These visits are vital, as they allow us to monitor your progress—a key part of delivering that WOW-worthy smile.

At WOW Orthodontics, we take pride in offering a personalized approach to each adjustment. This ensures that your treatment stays on track while you remain comfortable and confident.

The Importance of Orthodontic Adjustments

The Benefits

Orthodontic adjustments play a pivotal role in achieving a successful treatment outcome. These regular visits ensure that your treatment plan is progressing as intended, allowing Dr. Oakes to make precise modifications that keep your teeth moving in the right direction. Without these adjustments, your braces or aligners may lose their effectiveness over time, potentially delaying your progress.

Beyond maintaining the effectiveness of your treatment, adjustments also provide an opportunity to address any concerns or discomfort you may be experiencing. Dr. Wendy Oakes and her team at WOW Orthodontics are committed to making these appointments stress-free while tailoring each adjustment to your unique needs. By staying on top of these visits, you’re taking an essential step toward a healthy and beautifully aligned smile that will last a lifetime.

Receiving Orthodontic Adjustments

At WOW Orthodontics, we know new experiences can sometimes feel intimidating. To ease any anxiety, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during an orthodontic adjustment appointment:

Initial Check-up

Your orthodontist will assess the current condition of your braces or aligners, carefully examining the progress of your teeth. We will address any broken or loose parts right away.

Wire and Band Adjustments

For patients with braces, we will tighten your wires or replace them to maintain optimal tension.

Aligner Check-in

For those using aligners, we’ll assess your current set and provide your next trays as part of your treatment progression. Our goal will also be to ensure your aligners fit snugly with no discomfort.

Monitoring Comfort

We prioritize your comfort, so you’ll have the chance to voice any concerns, whether it’s about tenderness, appliance fit, or anything else. Our orthodontist will make adjustments to help reduce any discomfort you might experience between visits.

Treatment Plan Updates

Finally, we’ll provide an update on your progress and ensure your treatment is still on schedule. You’ll leave with clear guidance about the next steps.

Most adjustments are quick and often completed in under an hour. However, it’s always best to ask questions and feel fully informed about your treatment during these appointments.

Aftercare Tips for Orthodontic Adjustments

Feeling a little sore after an adjustment? That’s completely normal! Slight tenderness shows that your braces or aligners are working. Here are a few tips to help you care for your teeth after an orthodontic adjustment:

Stick to Soft Foods: Mashed potatoes, pasta, smoothies, and soups can be lifesavers while your teeth adjust to tightened wires or new trays.
Use Orthodontic Wax: If you’re dealing with irritation from braces, brackets, or wires, orthodontic wax can provide much-needed relief. Apply it to the troublesome areas for added comfort.
Rinse with Warm Salt Water: A saltwater rinse is a soothing remedy for alleviating gum soreness and inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and swish for 30 seconds.
Stay on Top of Oral Hygiene: Braces can make cleaning a little trickier, but it’s no reason to skip flossing or brushing. Use special tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes to keep everything clean and healthy.
Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief if Needed: If soreness persists, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult with your orthodontist if you’re unsure.