La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – When it comes to orthodontic treatment, there are many options for patients. Standard metal braces, braces with colors, clear braces, clear removable braces, braces that go behind the teeth, etc. – but can an orthodontic patient choose which type of braces he or she gets?
“Your orthodontic treatment is a team effort,” says Dr. Robert Gire of Gire Orthodontics. “You and your orthodontic team have to work together to achieve the best results. That means working together to choose a treatment that will not only be effective, but one that you’re happy with.”
At your initial orthodontic consultation, Dr. Gire will recommend the treatment he feels is right for you. This will be based on his experience over the years in working with thousands of orthodontic patients. For many patients, however, there may be more than one option that will be effective at moving their teeth.
“Some patients come in set on the idea that they want a cosmetically pleasing braces option,” says Dr. Gire. “While it might be my opinion that standard metal braces will be the most efficient way to correct their smile and bite, clear removable braces like Clear Correct or Invisalign may also be an option. In this case, we would talk through the pros and cons of both so that the patient can ultimately make an informed decision about which treatment is best for his or her situation.”
In other cases, however, Dr. Gire may warn a patient against a certain treatment.
For instance, maybe a patient has read about lingual braces and loves the idea of braces that fit along the tongue side of the teeth. Metal braces that are both efficient and virtually invisible sound fantastic. But, Dr. Gire may warn you against lingual braces for your specific malocclusion because, based on his experience, that type of treatment may not provide the best results.
“As an orthodontist, my job is to ensure every patient ends treatment with a beautiful and healthy smile,” says Dr. Gire. “And sometimes that means a patient needs to compromise on a treatment option to ensure we can get the best result possible.”
The average amount of time a patient spends in braces ranges from 12 to 24 months, but each patient is unique and how the mouth responds to treatment is unique as well. Some patients may see their teeth move very quickly and be out of braces in under a year, while others may have more severe cases that can take longer than two years.
“We want to find the treatment that will be the most efficient and effective for you,” says Dr. Gire. “I love when patients come in well-informed and who have researched the options available. But, it is also important for the patient to be willing to listen to the advice and expertise of the orthodontist. Then together, we can create a treatment plan that takes into account my experience and the preferences of the patient.”
If you want to ensure a beautifully healthy, lasting smile, it’s important to do your research on orthodontic treatment options. It’s just as important to listen to the person with the most experience – your orthodontist. Working together as a team, you will be enjoying your new smile in no time.
To discuss all of your potential options, please schedule a complimentary consultation at Gire Orthodontics: 562-690-1199 (La Habra) or 909-393-9911 (Chino Hills). We look forward to meeting you!