“Dr. Iverson, what are the first steps in getting orthodontic braces?” “Dr. Iverson, what usually happens during an initial orthodontic exam?”

In order to determine your specific needs, an orthodontist will completely evaluate your mouth. This will likely include:

• Photographs of your teeth, face, and smile
• X-rays of your head and teeth
• Your medical health history and dental health history
  

The doctor will then carefully evaluate your specific needs and provide you with a treatment plan for correction. Following the recommended plan is important for proper correction.

“What is an impression?”
When taking an impression, a silly putty type material is placed against your teeth. The material hardens to produce an exact mold of your teeth. Models are then made from these, which are useful to remind you exactly how your teeth looked before correction.

“What are spacers, Dr. Iverson?”
Teeth normally fit tightly against one another. Spacers are inserted before placement of your braces to provide some space between teeth for attaching the bands. In just a few days they gently move desired teeth slightly apart.
Spacers often cause some soreness, but this goes away in a few days. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to relieve the irritation. Your normal chewing also helps to get your mouth feeling better.

“What do I do if a spacer comes out?”
Call our office immediately for a replacement. That little spacer is making just enough room for a comfortable fit for your braces and plays an important role. For more information about how we at Thomas A. Iverson DDS MS can help you with orthodontic braces, call us at (530) 671-2940, we will be happy to talk with you.