Braces are specialized dental appliances used to apply continuous, gentle pressure to teeth, gradually moving them into predetermined positions over time. This process, known as orthodontic treatment, aims to correct alignment issues and improve how the upper and lower teeth fit together. Beyond cosmetic enhancement, treatment improves overall oral function, making it easier to chew, speak, and maintain dental hygiene. Starting treatment involves several distinct requirements, including a clinical diagnosis, crucial preparatory steps, and practical financial planning.
Medical Necessity for Orthodontic Treatment
The primary requirement for receiving braces is a clinical diagnosis of malocclusion, or a “bad bite,” which compromises oral health and function. An orthodontist must determine that the benefits of treatment outweigh the commitment required. Common conditions include dental crowding, where there is insufficient space for alignment, and spacing issues, which increase the risk of plaque buildup.
Misalignments of the jaw relationship are also a frequent requirement, categorized by how the upper and lower teeth meet. An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth, while an underbite is the reverse. Crossbites and open bites, where teeth fail to make contact, can strain jaw muscles and affect chewing efficiency.
These structural issues can lead to functional problems, such as difficulty chewing or contributing to speech impediments like a lisp. Correcting the alignment of the dental arches helps distribute biting pressure more evenly. This reduces the risk of excessive tooth wear and jaw joint pain, improving long-term dental health and function.
Essential Pre-Treatment Preparations
Before the physical placement of brackets and wires, preparatory steps must be completed to ensure a successful treatment outcome. The process begins with an initial consultation where the orthodontist gathers diagnostic records to create a precise, individualized treatment plan. These records typically include full-mouth X-rays, detailed photographs, and physical or digital scans to create a three-dimensional model of the bite.
Achieving optimal oral health is required, as braces cannot be placed on diseased teeth. Patients must undergo a mandatory dental cleaning, ideally within six months of the start date, to ensure the teeth are free of plaque and calculus. Any existing dental issues, such as active cavities or failing restorations, must be addressed before the bonding procedure.
The health of the gums and underlying bone structure is thoroughly checked to confirm they can withstand the forces of tooth movement. In cases of severe crowding or significant jaw misalignment, the treatment plan may require the extraction of specific teeth to create necessary space. This preparatory phase ensures the foundation for tooth movement is healthy and ready to support the orthodontic appliance.
Practical and Financial Considerations
Beyond the clinical and preparatory requirements, practical logistics and financial planning are necessary for treatment to proceed. A significant requirement is the commitment to regular, scheduled appointments, typically occurring every four to eight weeks. The overall length of treatment commonly ranges from 18 to 36 months, requiring long-term dedication.
While treatment often occurs during adolescence, age is not a barrier, and adults increasingly seek orthodontic care. For minor patients, a legal requirement is the informed consent of a parent or legal guardian before any treatment can begin. This ensures the responsible party understands the commitment and compliance required.
The financial aspect is a major consideration, as the cost of comprehensive orthodontic treatment varies widely, generally ranging from $3,000 to over $7,000. This cost depends on the type of appliance and complexity. Many offices offer flexible in-house payment plans, allowing the total cost to be spread out over the course of treatment, often with a required down payment. Patients should verify their dental insurance coverage, as many policies have a lifetime maximum benefit or an age limit for orthodontic care.