The ususal plan is to move a tooth or teeth roughly one milimeter per month, however this is not set in stone and has a great deal to do with the types of devices used and the patient himself.

Procedure:   The procedure for braces treatments vary greatly, but nearly always will begin with an appointment where all records are established so as to give the orthodontist a plan of action. It must be determined which types of braces are suitable for the patient, and even if the patient can be fitted for braces at all. A visual inspection, as well as a full set of x-rays will generally be taken during this appointment. Additionally, molds and impressions may be made during this appointment and a treatment plan worked out. Typically braces treatments vary in length anywhere between six months to as much as two years. There may also be the additional requirement of orthognathic surgery in order to prepare the teeth and gums for braces.

The teeth to be involved in the braces treatment will be prepared in order to help the cement bond to the surface of each tooth. In most cases the teeth will be banded and then brackets will be added. A bracket will be applied with dental cement, and then cured with light until it is fully hardened. This process usually takes a few seconds per tooth, and if it is required, orthodontic spacers may need to be inserted between the molars to make room for molar bands to be inserted at a later date. Molar bands are required to ensure brackets will stick. Bands are also utilized when dental fillings or other dental work make securing a bracket to a tooth difficult or impossible.

The archwire will be threaded between the brackets and is securedwith elastic or metal ligatures. Archwires are then bent and tightened frequently to achieve the desired results, all the time being reshaped toward the end goal. Brackets with hooks are sometimes used, or other forms of securing can be used to shape the archwire to secure the elastic to. The placement and configuration of the elastics depends on the indivudual patient's plan, and what the orthodontist is trying to achieve. Elastics are made in different diameters, colors, sizes and strengths, and are chosen depending on the treatment plan.

Each month or two, adjustment of the braces themselves must happen. This shifts the teeth closer to the end position the orthodontist is working toward. The process of adjusting and tightening the braces involves removing the bands and archwire, at which point it is reshaped and new bands are applied. While this process usually causes some discomfort, the slow and gradual process of movement of the teeth minimizes pain as much as possible.

After the initial application of braces, as well as each time after adjustment, the patient is usually sore and experiencing some discomfort. During this time it is best to stick to soft foods and liquid to avoid additional pressures being placed on the teeth which may cause additional pain. After a few days, the pain usually minized and disappears completely and the patient can go back to eating foods they have always enjoyed. There are certain foods and other substances like chewing gum that should be avoided during the entire braces treatment, your Absolute Dental Orthodontist will explain these restrictions further.