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1. Initial Visit and Examination
 At your first visit, Dr. Musgrave will examine your teeth, jaws, and facial relationships for any problems and give you a full explanation of the situation.
While this first exam does not always result in immediate treatment, it allows the doctor to determine how and when a patient's particular problem should be treated for maximum improvement.
2. Diagnostic Evaluation
Next, orthodontic records such as x-rays, photos, and impressions are taken so that Dr. "Mark" can judge the extent of the problem and develop a treatment plan.
3. Placement of Braces
Compared to the "good old days" when each tooth was fit with bands to obtain the correct size - a time consuming and difficult process - braces today are applied to the front surface of the tooth. Usually the patient does not even feel them being placed!!! Our finely trained treatment staff then explains about how to care for your new braces.
4. Periodic Appointments
After the braces are placed, regular appointments are scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks to monitor your progress and make adjustments to your braces. These visits usually involve re-tying or changing the "archwire" to continue straightening your teeth.
Many patients will "pick colors" to highlight, rather than conceal, their braces. This makes your orthodontic experience more fun, with colors being changed each appointment, to celebrate different events, changes in season, or your particular style.
 
5. Retention: The Last and Important Step
OK, the braces are off and your teeth are straight. No more appointments, right? Well, not exactly. Now begins the important final step of your treatment: Retention.
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| Upper Retainer |
Bonded Lower Retainer |
Retainers are needed to allow your teeth to settle into their newly corrected position because it takes time for your bones, gums, and muscles to adjust to this change. Usually it requires a year of wearing the upper retainer full time, and somewhat longer for the lower retainer, before the teeth become stable.
Various Upper Retainer Designs
However, retention appointments are less frequent, ranging from every 2 to 5 months. So be patient, this final step in treatment will help provide you with a lifetime of winning smiles.
"Get started today. The results will be worth it.
A BEAUTIFUL SMILE for the rest of your life!"
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