When the patient has chosen to proceed with braces, whether they are receiving low-profile mini twin metal brackets or clear ceramic braces, the beginning of treatment is the same.

Dr. Renick will have placed separators at the records appointment in order to create the space for bands on the teeth. At the initial band and bond appointment, these separators will be removed so that the bands can be fit to the molars. Placing the band onto the molars is the first step of the initial braces appointment. As each tooth is uniquely shaped, the bands must be custom-fit to the tooth in order to provide the best possible results for treatment. Picture fitting a ring to your finger. It must be sized first. In much the same way, the proper size must be found for each tooth.

Once the right size band is fit, it will be cemented to the tooth using special dental cements. These cements are made from materials that not only are strong enough to last throughout treatment but which are also easy to remove once treatment is completed.

The next step of the band and bond appointment is bonding, or placing the brackets. Brackets are bonded with another type of dental cement, and placing them is similar to putting stickers on the teeth.

We use light cure technology to harden the cement for both the bands and the brackets once Dr. Renick has placed them on the teeth. This very same light cure technique is used throughout the field of dentistry for procedures such as fillings and sealants. Initially, the cement will remain soft and workable to allow for correct positioning on the tooth until exposed to a light with a blue wavelength. This is NOT an ultraviolet light and will not harm the patient. The cured cement will hold the bracket and band in place even after a force is applied.

Note that as with the bands, the bracket cement is made to maintain the brackets throughout the months of treatment. The brackets still have to be removable and will not withstand every force. For this reason, at the end of the appointment, we provide care instructions to our patients which not only include proper brushing and hygiene tips but also tips on how to prevent breakage and emergencies.

THE MAJORITY OF OUR PATIENTS COMPLETE TREATMENT WITHOUT BREAKING THEIR BANDS AND BRACKETS BY FOLLOWING OUR EASY CARE GUIDELINES

The last step in getting started with braces is to connect the bands and brackets to provide the force to begin moving the teeth. We do this with a wire. The wire also verifies that the brackets and bands are bonded well because it is immediate force delivery and tests the bond. We start with light wires to be able to engage the teeth and to gently initiate the patient to treatment without a lot of discomfort

In order to engage the wire, we use “ties” that tie the wire into the brackets and bands. The orthodontic ties can be stainless steel ties or color ties and are changed at every appointment. Our kids love to create new color schemes and our assistants help with the creative endeavors. Buckeye scarlet and gray? Mystic mermaid? Halloween black and orange? Columbus Crew black and yellow? No problem! Bring your ideas! Clear ties are also available to blend into the system and tone down the ability to notice the braces.

At the end of the appointment, we always ask if anything is poking or sticking the patient because no one should leave the office with any discomfort. Patient preventive care and our office policies are reviewed to make sure treatment progresses as smoothly as possible. Because of the seriousness of these topics, Dr. Renick reviews the care instructions with the patient and/or the parent or guardian. Additionally, patients will receive a care kit and hands on directions to help treatment move along efficiently.

If you have any questions about getting started with braces and to make your appointment with our orthodontist in Sunbury, Ohio, call Renick Orthodontics today at 740-936-5003.