Our Ollins Orthodontics team knows life gets busy between work, school, sports, and everything in between. It can be tempting to reschedule or skip an orthodontic appointment, but staying on schedule is one of the most important things you can do for the success of your treatment! Let’s take a deeper look at why.
Technology That Keeps Teeth Moving
Our office is dedicated to giving you the best tools for a better treatment experience. That’s why Ollins Orthodontics uses advanced technology like:
- Pitts 21 Braces: These self-ligating braces offer more precise control and require fewer visits thanks to smoother tooth movement.
- Invisalign Clear Aligners: Virtually invisible and removable, Invisalign works best when appointments are used to monitor fit and swap out aligner sets.
- 3D Imaging & Intraoral Scanning: These technologies provide more accurate data, reduce discomfort, and let us plan and adjust your treatment more precisely.
When you pair high-tech appliances with consistent check-ins, you get better results even faster!
Why Regular Appointments Matter
Orthodontic treatment is a process of controlled tooth movement. Your teeth are gradually guided into new positions using precise force, and that process needs to be monitored and adjusted at just the right time by Dr. Gabriel and Dr. Bruce Ollins. That’s where your regular appointments come in.
- Monitoring Progress: When you come in for a scheduled visit, our team checks the movement of your teeth and makes sure they’re tracking as planned. If adjustments are needed, we make them right away to keep everything on course. Missing even one visit can delay your progress and potentially require extra time in treatment.
- Avoiding Setbacks: If you’re using Invisalign or Pitts 21 braces, each stage builds on the last. Skipping appointments can throw off your treatment timeline or cause your teeth to shift in unintended ways. Regular visits ensure that minor issues are caught before they become big problems.
- Keeping Treatment Comfortable: Modern orthodontics prioritizes comfort thanks to tools like 3D imaging and intraoral scanning. But these technologies only work when used consistently. By staying on schedule, you minimize the risk of discomfort and maximize the benefits of our office’s advanced tools.
What Happens During an Orthodontic Appointment?
You might think of your orthodontic appointments as simple check-ins, but they’re actually major milestones in your treatment journey. Here’s what usually happens during these short 15-30 minute visits:
- Visual Exam: Our team checks your teeth, bite, and overall progress.
- Appliance Check: They inspect your braces or aligners for any damage or issues.
- Adjustments: If you have braces, we may tighten wires, change elastics, or address any minor damage.
- Aligner Progress: If you wear clear aligners, we will assess your fit and progress, then provide your next set if you’re ready.
- Oral Hygiene Review: They check for signs of plaque buildup or gum irritation and may give brushing/flossing tips.
- Imaging (if needed): Photos or X-rays may be taken to track tooth movement at specific stages.
- Comfort Check: We’ll ask if you’re experiencing discomfort and make any necessary adjustments.
- Instructions: You’ll receive guidance on how to care for your teeth and appliances until your next visit.
Next Appointment Scheduled: A new check-in is scheduled to continue tracking your treatment.
When to Schedule an Emergency Orthodontic Appointment
Most orthodontic issues aren’t true emergencies, but some situations require prompt attention to keep your treatment on track and avoid discomfort. Common concerns include a broken bracket, loose wire, or anything poking your cheek or gum.
If you’re in significant pain or unsure how to handle the issue, call us at 973-667-0771 and press 2 to leave a message—one of our doctors will call you back, even outside normal office hours!
Some problems can be managed at home temporarily until we are able to see you:
- Food caught between teeth: Use floss, a toothpick, or an interproximal brush.
- Loose ligatures: Use sterile tweezers to reposition or remove.
- Soreness: Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods help.
- Lip/cheek irritation: Apply orthodontic wax to rough spots.
- Protruding wire: Push flat with a Q-tip or cover with wax.
- Swallowed appliance piece: Stay calm and call us if it can’t be safely retrieved. Never attempt to retrieve the component if you cannot see it, as it may have been aspirated. If it has been, this is considered an acute emergency.
If you’re ever unsure of what to do, it’s always better to call Ollins Orthodontics and ask us directly so we can give you the appropriate advice.
Let’s Keep Your Smile Moving Forward
Ready to experience high-tech, family-friendly orthodontics? Contact our Nutley office today to schedule a free consultation with one of our doctors!
