If you’re starting your orthodontic journey with the goal of an improved smile, then there is no place better to start than Mission Hill Dental, nestled in the heart of St. Albert. We are dedicated to providing personalized and effective orthodontic solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients.
We wrote this blog to help educate our patients before they embark on this transformative journey. Not only do orthodontics straighten your teeth, but they also create harmony between your teeth, jaws, and facial structure. Whether you’re considering braces for your child, exploring Invisalign for yourself, or simply curious about the benefits of orthodontic treatment, our St. Albert clinic is here to guide you through every step.
Our commitment to excellence and patient-centred care make us a leading choice for orthodontic services in St. Albert. We believe that informed patients make the best decisions. Let’s begin the journey towards a straighter, healthier, more beautiful smile together.
Understanding Orthodontics
Orthodontics focus on diagnosing, preventing and treating dental and facial irregularities. These irregularities range from simple cosmetic concerns to complex problems involving jaw and teeth alignment growth and development. Orthodontics’ primary goal is to create an aesthetically pleasing smile and establish a well-functioning bite that promotes oral health and overall well-being.
Common orthodontic problems that we see at our St. Albert clinic include overcrowding of teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and jaw misalignments. Treating these complications is important because they affect how you chew, speak, and maintain oral hygiene. If these complications are left untreated, they can lead to further health complications.
At Mission Hill Dental, we offer various orthodontic treatment options that suit every age and lifestyle. Most patients use traditional bonded braces (metal braces) or clear aligners (Invisalign).
Traditional metal braces are a popular and effective choice for correcting many orthodontic issues. For those looking for a more discreet solution, we offer clear aligners like Invisalign, which are less noticeable and are removable during eating, brushing and flossing.
Traditional metal braces
Invisalign trays
Understanding Orthodontics
Choosing the correct type of orthodontic treatment depend on several factors, including the severity of your dental issues, lifestyle, and personal preferences. During your initial consultation at our St Albert clinic, Dr. Dimitrov will thoroughly examine your teeth and jaws, discuss your goals and lifestyle, and recommend the most suitable options for achieving your ideal smile.
Understanding the basics of orthodontics and available treatments is the first step toward a successful outcome. Now, we can focus on what you need to know about your first appointment.
Preparing for Your First Orthodontic Visit
Your initial orthodontic visit is pivotal in achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. We strive to make your first visit and discussion as informative and comfortable as possible. Here is what you can do to prepare for your first meeting:
1) Gather your dental history: Before your appointment, compile any relevant dental records, X-rays, and information about your dental history. This information will provide Dr. Dimitrov with valuable insights into your oral health and help him to develop a customized treatment plan.
2) Prepare a list of questions: It is normal to have questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment. Write down any questions you have beforehand so you remember to ask them during your visit. Some topics to ask about include the types of braces or aligners suitable for your situation, the estimated duration of the treatment, and any adjustments that might be necessary.
3) Know your insurance details: If you have dental insurance which covers orthodontic treatment, bring your insurance card and any related documentation. This documentation will help our team understand your coverage and assist with any necessary paperwork.
4) Be ready for an initial examination: During your first visit, Dr. Dimitrov will perform a comprehensive assessment of your teeth, jaws, and mouth. This examination may include photographs, X-rays or digital scans. These diagnostic tools are essential for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.
5) Discuss your goals: Consider what you want to achieve with orthodontic treatment. Whether you want to improve your bite, align your teeth, or enhance your smile, sharing your goals with Dr. Dimitrov will help ensure that your treatment plan aligns with your expectations.
Coming prepared for your first orthodontic visit ensures a smooth and productive consultation. Now, we review what the orthodontic treatment process entails.
The Orthodontic Treatment Process
At Mission Hill Dental, we are committed to ensuring your orthodontic journey is as smooth as possible. Here’s what you can expect during the orthodontic treatment process:
1) Customized Treatment Planning: Every smile is unique, and so is every orthodontic treatment plan. Following your initial examination, Dr. Dimitrov will use the gathered information, including x-rays and digital scans, to create a tailored treatment plan. This plan will outline the recommended orthodontic solution, the expected duration of treatment, and any specific instructions or considerations relevant to your case.
2) Application of Orthodontic Appliances: Depending on your specific needs, you may receive traditional braces or clear aligners. If you opt for braces, they will be carefully attached to your teeth, and Dr. Dimitrov will explain how to care for them. If you choose clear aligners, you will receive instructions on how to wear and care for them, along with your first set of aligner trays.
3) Regular Adjustments and Monitoring: Orthodontic treatment requires regular visits and adjustments to ensure progress is on track. These visits are essential for adjusting braces, evaluating the fit of aligners, and making any necessary changes to your treatment plan. Dr. Dimitrov will monitor your progress closely and provide guidance and support through treatment.
4) Ongoing Care and Maintenance: Throughout your treatment, maintaining good oral hygiene and following Dr. Dimitrov’s instructions are crucial for achieving the best results. This includes regular brushing and flossing and attending any recommended cleanings or check-ups.
5) Conclusion and Post-Treatment Care: After completing your orthodontic treatment, you will have to wear a retainer as directed by Dr. Dimitrov to ensure your teeth stay in position. We will provide you with all the necessary post-treatment care interventions and support to maintain your beautiful new smile.
We are here to guide you through every step, answer your questions, and provide support for a successful outcome. Now that you know what to expect at your appointment let’s see what you can expect in your day-to-day life.
Life With Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontics come with a period of care, commitment, and adaption. Below are a few things to know about your life during orthodontic treatment:
1) Oral Hygiene: Proper oral hygiene is important during this time. Braces can trap food particles and make cleaning more challenging. We recommend brushing after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using floss, including flossing between the wires and teeth. If you wear clear aligners, ensure they are cleaned regularly to prevent staining and odour.
2) Eating Habits: Certain foods can damage orthodontic appliances or hinder treatment progress. We advise not eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can break wires or brackets.
3) Discomfort and Adjustments: It’s normal to experience some discomfort after braces are fitted or following adjustments. This discomfort is typically temporary and is managed by over-the-counter drugs such as Tylenol.
4) Sports and Activities: We recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and orthodontic appliances if you’re involved in sports or physical activities. Dr. Dimitrov can advise you on suitable mouthguards that accommodate braces or aligners.
Living with orthodontic treatment requires adjustments but doesn’t have to disrupt your lifestyle. We are here to support you every step of the way.
At Mission Hill Dental, we’re committed to ensuring that each of our patients in St. Albert experiences the highest level of care and comfort regarding tooth extractions and tooth removal.
From the initial consultation to the moment you walk out of our clinic, Dr. Dimitorv and our dedicated team are here to support you. We focus on both the procedure and also what to expect before, during and after the procedure. We are just a message or phone call away if you have further questions or need additional support. Together, we’ll keep your smile bright and healthy.
