How Often Do I Have to Visit My Orthodontist?

After your braces have been put on your teeth, or your first tray of Invisalign is in place in your mouth, you may be wondering: “How often do I have to make appointments to see my orthodontist?” The answer to this question is different for every person because it depends on the treatment type you’ve chosen and the plan that your orthodontist has created for you. However, there are some basic guidelines for visits to your orthodontist.

Follow-Up Appointments for Braces

Traditional braces work by gradually moving the teeth, and this happens through adjustments to the wires on your braces. At your follow-up appointments with your orthodontist, they will do the following:

• Evaluate your progress
• Remove your elastics
• Adjust or replace your wire
• Replace your elastics
• Give helpful advice and answer any questions you may have

With traditional braces, your follow-up appointments should take about 30 minutes. The amount of time between appointments will vary based on the severity of your orthodontic issues. Typically, patients can expect to see their orthodontist every eight to ten weeks.

Follow-Up Appointments for Invisalign

Just like patients with traditional braces, if you are getting Invisalign treatment, you’ll need to schedule follow-up appointments with your orthodontist to see how your treatment is progressing. Invisalign treatment consists of clear, plastic aligners that are changed out periodically to correct any orthodontic issues. Typically, patients receive a new set of aligners every one to two weeks.

Invisalign aligners gradually move your teeth into their proper place. Making sure you schedule and attend all of your follow-up appointments will ensure that your orthodontist can track your progress. With Invisalign treatment, your orthodontist will want to see you about every eight to twelve weeks to monitor your treatment.

The Importance of Follow-Up Appointments

Keeping up with your regular orthodontic check-ups is crucial to the outcome of your treatment. If you skip appointments, you will likely add extra time to your treatment plan. If you want to be done with your orthodontic treatment in a timely manner, it’s best to attend your scheduled appointments.

Your orthodontist understands that sometimes life events happen, and you may need to reschedule an appointment here and there. However, it’s in your own best interest to not let too much time lapse between appointments. See your orthodontist regularly during your treatment is imperative to your success.

Get in touch with the team at Charleston Orthodontic Specialists! We’ll help you find the right treatment plan. Call (843) 4-BRACES to learn more.