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6 Steps to a Straighter Smile: A Comprehensive Guide to Orthodontic Treatment

Dr. Zehra Syed

By Dr. Brandon Boggan

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Dr. Brandon Boggan

By Dr. Brandon Boggan

Orthodontic treatment can be a confusing process for those who are unfamiliar with it. I want to try to clear that up. From the initial consultation to the placement of braces or aligners, there are several steps involved in straightening your teeth and correcting any misalignment issues. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the orthodontic treatment process and provide a step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect.


Step 1: The Initial Consultation

The first step in the orthodontic treatment process is the initial consultation. During this appointment, you will meet with Dr. Boggan or Dr. Syed, who will evaluate your teeth and bite to determine if you are a candidate for treatment. This may include taking x-rays and photographs of your mouth, as well as getting a 3D scan of your teeth (or possibly impressions of your teeth). 


Step 2: Treatment Planning

Once the orthodontist has assessed your needs, they will develop a treatment plan that is personalized to your specific case. This will include the type of braces (metal, clear, or self-ligating brackets) or clear aligners (such as Invisalign, Clarity Aligners from 3M, or SHIFT Aligners™) that will be used, as well as the duration of treatment and the number of follow-up appointments that will be needed.


Step 3: Placing the Braces or Aligners

Once the treatment plan has been finalized, it's time to place the braces or aligners. This appointment typically takes about an hour for braces and about 30 minutes for aligners. For braces, the orthodontist will attach the brackets to your teeth and then place wires through the brackets which is held in place with colored “o-ties”. For aligners, attachments (sometimes referred to as “glue dots”) are placed then the aligners are placed over the teeth and attachments. Attachments are to move your teeth more efficiently and helps the aligners to fit snugly over a patient’s teeth.   Whether you are getting braces or aligners, you will also receive instructions on how to care for them and what to expect during the first few days of treatment. 


Step 4: Follow-Up Appointments

During the course of treatment, you will need to visit the orthodontist regularly for follow-up appointments. These appointments typically occur every 4-8 weeks for braces and up to 12 weeks or more for clear aligners. They allow the orthodontist to make any necessary adjustments to your braces or aligners.


Step 5: Removing the Braces or Aligners

Once your treatment is complete, the orthodontist will remove your braces or attachments. This process typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and the orthodontist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your teeth and maintain the results of treatment. 


Step 6: Delivering and Wearing Retainers

After braces or aligners are removed, your orthodontist will make you a set of retainers. Retainers are worn after braces or aligners to help ensure that the teeth maintain their desired alignment and prevent relapse, which is the tendency for teeth to return to their original position. This is especially important for patients who have had severe misalignment or have undergone significant tooth movement during treatment. The retention period is usually determined by the orthodontist and can vary from patient to patient, but generally, it is a period of time in which the teeth are still adapting to the new position and need support to keep them in place. We always recommend that patients wear retainers for as long as they want to have straight teeth. The day you stop wearing retainers is the day they start moving. So, protect your smile investment and wear your retainers. 


Orthodontic treatment can be a long and involved process, but the results are worth it! By following the steps outlined above and working closely with Dr. Boggan or Dr. Syed, you can achieve a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime. Schedule an appointment at our Pelham or Calera location today!

beautiful woman with glasses smiling in the street
Dr. Brandon Boggan

Brandon Boggan has been practicing orthodontics full-time since 1998. He is the Chief Smile Engineer and the CFO (Chief Fun Officer) at Ortho South in Pelham and Calera, Alabama. His love for people, marketing, and helping other orthodontists grow their practice led him to start a brand and website development and digital marketing company called Onboard Marketing Group. You can find Brandon on LinkedIn, OrthoSouth.com, or OnboardMG.com.

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December 16, 2024
Table of Contents Introduction Why Now Is the Perfect Time for Orthodontic Care How Ortho South Can Help You Save Why Choose Ortho South? Start Your Smile Journey Today Your Smile Is Worth the Investment Don't Wait—Take the First Step Toward a Beautiful Smile Schedule Your Free Consultation Today Why Your Smile Deserves the Best Smile On With Ortho South! Conclusion Frequently Asked Questions About FSA and Insurance Benefits for Orthodontic Care Introduction As the end of the year approaches, it's the perfect time to focus on your health—and your smile! At Ortho South , located in Pelham and Calera, Alabama, we want to help you take full advantage of your flex spending accounts (FSA) and insurance benefits before they expire. Don't let those valuable funds go to waste; invest in your smile today and set yourself up for a confident New Year. Why Now Is the Perfect Time for Orthodontic Care If you've been considering braces or Invisalign® , there's no better time than now to start. Many insurance plans and FSA funds operate on a "use-it-or-lose-it" basis, meaning any remaining benefits for the year will expire on December 31st . Starting your treatment now ensures you maximize your benefits while investing in the lifelong gift of a beautiful, healthy smile. At Ortho South , led by Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed , we specialize in creating smiles that shine. With locations in Pelham and Calera, Alabama , and a reputation as Alabama's Most Experienced Aligner Provider , you can trust that your smile is in expert hands. How Ortho South Can Help You Save We understand that affordability is a priority for our patients. That's why we work with your insurance benefits and FSA funds to minimize out-of-pocket costs. Whether you're interested in traditional braces or the convenience of Invisalign®, our team will guide you through the process of utilizing your benefits to the fullest. Key Benefits of Orthodontic Care at Ortho South: Flexible Payment Options : Tailored plans to fit your budget. Comprehensive Insurance Assistance : We help you understand and use your benefits effectively. Affordable Braces Near You : Conveniently located in Pelham and Calera, Alabama. Why Choose Ortho South? Expert Care : With over three decades of combined experience, Dr. Boggan and Dr. Syed are committed to delivering top-notch orthodontic care. Top-Rated Practice : 635+ Google Reviews with a 5-star rating speak volumes about the quality of care we provide. Convenient Locations : Serving families in Pelham and Calera, our offices make getting the care you need easy. Start Your Smile Journey Today Whether you need braces or Invisalign®, our team at Ortho South is here to make the process smooth and affordable. Don't wait until the clock runs out on your benefits—schedule your free consultation today and let us help you maximize your FSA and insurance coverage. Ready to Smile On? Call us now at 205-664-4140 or click HERE to book your appointment. Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile before the New Year! Your Smile Is Worth the Investment Investing in orthodontic care isn't just about aesthetics; it's about improving your overall health and confidence. With affordable options , expert providers, and a commitment to personalized care, Ortho South is your partner in achieving a smile you'll love forever. Don't delay—secure your spot today and make 2024 the year you Smile On! Don't Wait—Take the First Step Toward a Beautiful Smile Whether you're looking to enhance your smile with braces or the convenience of Invisalign®, the team at Ortho South is ready to help you achieve your goals. With two convenient locations in Pelham and Calera, we're just around the corner from your neighborhood, making it easy to fit orthodontic care into your busy schedule. Special Year-End Offer To help you take advantage of your benefits, we're offering $455 off treatment for NEW patients who start their journey before December 31st . This limited-time offer ensures you get the best value while making your smile dreams a reality. Schedule Your Free Consultation Today Don't let time—or benefits—slip away. Call 205-664-4140 or click HERE today to schedule your free consultation. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and guide you through every step of your orthodontic journey. Why Your Smile Deserves the Best Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and it can profoundly impact your confidence and overall health. At Ortho South, we're committed to delivering exceptional results tailored to your needs. From our skilled providers, Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed , to our commitment as Alabama's Most Experienced Aligner Provider , you can trust us to provide the highest level of care. With 635+ 5-star Google reviews , our patients agree—there's no better place to start your smile journey. Smile On With Ortho South! As the New Year approaches, there's no better time to focus on your health and your smile. Let Ortho South help you maximize your benefits and achieve a smile that will last a lifetime. Call us today and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident future. Locations: Pelham Office : 205-664-4140 Calera Office : 205-664-4140 Visit us online at orthosouth.com . Let's make your smile the highlight of 2024! Conclusion Investing in your smile is one of the most impactful decisions you can make for your health and confidence. As the year draws to a close, now is the ideal time to take advantage of your FSA and insurance benefits at Ortho South. Our dedicated team, led by Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed, is committed to providing exceptional orthodontic care that fits your budget and lifestyle. With our flexible payment options, expert insurance assistance, and two convenient locations in Pelham and Calera, achieving the smile of your dreams has never been more accessible. Don't let your benefits expire—reach out to us today at 205-664-4140 or click HERE to schedule your free consultation. Let's make 2024 the year you Smile On with confidence and joy! Frequently Asked Questions About FSA and Insurance Benefits for Orthodontic Care At Ortho South, we want to ensure you're fully informed about how to use your benefits wisely. Here are some common questions we often hear from patients: Can I Use My FSA or HSA for Orthodontic Treatment? Yes! Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) can often be used to pay for braces, Invisalign®, or other orthodontic treatments. These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, including orthodontic care, which means you save money while investing in your smile. What Happens If I Don't Use My FSA Funds by Year-End? Most FSAs operate on a "use-it-or-lose-it" basis, meaning unused funds typically expire at the end of the year. That's why it's crucial to schedule your consultation and start treatment now to make the most of those funds. Does Insurance Cover Orthodontic Treatment? Many insurance plans offer orthodontic coverage, often with a lifetime maximum benefit. Our experienced team will work with you to verify your insurance coverage and help you understand how to maximize your benefits for braces or Invisalign®. How Can Ortho South Help Me Save on Treatment Costs? We offer flexible payment options, family discounts, and expert guidance to help you navigate the complexities of insurance and FSA funds. Our goal is to make orthodontic care accessible and affordable for every family.
A woman in a red sweater is holding a gift box with a gold bow.
December 16, 2024
Table of Contents Introduction Why a Confident Smile is the Ultimate Gift Meet the Experts: Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed Locations That Serve You: Pelham and Calera, Alabama Services Offered at Ortho South Braces vs. Invisalign®: Which One is Right for You? Why Choose Ortho South? The Smile Transformation Process at Ortho South Gift of Braces: A Unique and Thoughtful Holiday Present Flexible Payment Plans for Every Budget Smile Transformation Stories: Real Patient Experiences What Sets Ortho South Apart from Other Orthodontic Providers? Alabama’s Most Experienced Aligner Provider Schedule Your Free Consultation Today Frequently Asked Questions Introduction The holiday season is perfect for spreading joy and creating lifelong memories. What better way to brighten someone’s life than giving them the gift of a confident smile? At Ortho South , we are dedicated to transforming smiles and boosting confidence through cutting-edge orthodontic care. Let’s explore how our expert team, including Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed , can help you or your loved ones achieve the smile of their dreams. Why a Confident Smile is the Ultimate Gift A smile is more than just a facial expression; it reflects confidence, joy, and self-esteem. However, smiling might feel like a struggle for those with misaligned teeth. Give your loved ones the ultimate gift this holiday season—their dream smile. At Ortho South, we specialize in creating smiles that look beautiful and radiate self-confidence. Whether braces for your child or Invisalign® for a working professional, our treatments suit all ages and lifestyles. Meet the Experts: Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed When it comes to creating perfect smiles, expertise matters. At Ortho South, you’ll be in the capable hands of Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed , two of the most trusted orthodontists in Alabama. Dr. Brandon Boggan : Renowned for his commitment to cutting-edge orthodontic techniques, Dr. Boggan has helped thousands of patients achieve straight teeth and confident smiles. Dr. Zehra Syed : Known for her compassionate approach, Dr. Syed combines technical expertise with personalized care to ensure patients feel comfortable and confident in their treatment journey. They bring decades of experience and a shared passion for excellence, making Ortho South the go-to choice for orthodontic care. Locations That Serve You: Pelham and Calera, Alabama Conveniently located in Pelham and Calera , Ortho South offers easy access to top-quality orthodontic care for families across Alabama. Whether you seek treatment for yourself or your child, our state-of-the-art facilities and welcoming staff ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Services Offered at Ortho South Ortho South provides a range of orthodontic solutions to meet the unique needs of every patient. Braces Traditional braces remain a popular choice for straightening teeth. They effectively treat complex dental alignment issues and deliver reliable results. Invisalign® For those seeking a more discreet option, Invisalign® aligners are a game-changer. These clear, removable aligners straighten teeth without the look of traditional metal braces, making them ideal for teenagers and adults alike. Braces vs. Invisalign®: Which One is Right for You? Deciding between braces and Invisalign® can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide: Feature . Braces Invisalign® Visibility Visible metal brackets Virtually invisible aligners Comfort May cause slight irritation Smooth, comfortable fit Maintenance Regular cleaning required Removable for easy cleaning Treatment Speed. Ideal for complex cases Best for mild-to-moderate cases Not sure which one is right for you? Schedule a free consultation, and we’ll help you choose! Why Choose Ortho South? There are many reasons to trust Ortho South with your smile transformation: Alabama’s Most Experienced Aligner Provider : We are the leading provider of Invisalign® in Alabama, bringing unmatched expertise to your care. Personalized Treatment : Every patient receives a customized treatment plan for optimal results. 5-Star Rated : With over 635 glowing Google reviews , our patients consistently praise our expertise, professionalism, and results. Affordable Options : Flexible payment plans and insurance-friendly policies ensure your treatment fits your budget. The Smile Transformation Process at Ortho South From your first consultation to the day your treatment ends, Ortho South is with you every step of the way: Initial Consultation : Meet our team, discuss your goals, and receive a customized treatment plan. Treatment Begins : Get fitted with braces or Invisalign® aligners. Ongoing Support : Regular check-ins ensure your treatment stays on track. Final Reveal : Celebrate your new, confident smile! Gift of Braces: A Unique and Thoughtful Holiday Present Want to give your loved one a gift they’ll never forget? A smile transformation is a lifelong investment in confidence and health. With our flexible payment options, gifting braces or Invisalign® is easier than ever. Flexible Payment Plans for Every Budget A new smile is a priceless gift, but at Ortho South, we believe it should also be accessible. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans tailored to fit your budget. Zero-Interest Financing : Spread the cost of treatment over time without worrying about added interest. Family Discounts : Do you have more than one family member who needs orthodontic care? We offer discounts for families to make it easier on your wallet. Insurance Coverage : Our team will help you navigate insurance benefits to maximize coverage. With options like these, transforming your smile is easier than ever. Smile Transformation Stories: Real Patient Experiences Nothing speaks louder than the smiles of happy patients. Here are just a couple of the success stories from Ortho South: Kimberly B. – “ My daughter sees Dr. Z at Ortho South and we could not be more pleased with her and the entire staff! Immediately at the consultation we knew this was where she needed to have her braces done and we have had nothing but positive experiences!” Emma T. – Ortho South is AMAZING! My 7 siblings and I have been coming all the way from Georgia to get our orthodontic needs met for years because no other orthodontic practice can compare to Ortho South. Dr. Boggan is always so kind to us as soon as we walk into the door! Highly recommend!!!! What Sets Ortho South Apart from Other Orthodontic Providers? There are plenty of orthodontic options out there, but Ortho South stands out for good reason: Expertise and Experience : With Dr. Boggan and Dr. Syed , we bring decades of combined experience to your care. Cutting-Edge Technology : We use the latest tools to ensure precise, efficient treatment, from digital imaging to advanced aligner systems. Personalized Care : Every treatment plan is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Community-Focused : We’re proud to serve Pelham, Calera, and surrounding communities with exceptional care. Schedule Your Free Consultation Today Why wait to start your journey toward a confident smile? Schedule your free consultation with Ortho South today! Call us : 205-664-4140 C lick HERE Whether you’re in Pelham or Calera, we’re here to make your smile dreams a reality. Conclusion A confident smile can change a life; there’s no better time to share that gift than during the holiday season. Whether you or your loved one needs braces, Invisalign®, or simply guidance on achieving a straighter smile, Ortho South is here to help. With Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed at the helm, our expert care, state-of-the-art facilities, and personalized treatment plans make it easier than ever to embark on a transformative smile journey. Conveniently located in Pelham and Calera, Ortho South proudly serves families across Alabama. From flexible payment plans to an unmatched reputation as Alabama’s Most Experienced Aligner Provider, we’re committed to making your dream smile a reality. So why wait? Take the first step today by scheduling a free consultation and begin your smile transformation. Let’s make this holiday season one to remember—because the gift of a smile lasts a lifetime. Call us at 205-664-4140 or click HERE to get started! Frequently Asked Questions How long does treatment with Invisalign® take? Most Invisalign® treatments are completed within 12–18 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Are braces better than aligners for kids? It depends on the child’s needs. Braces are ideal for severe misalignments, while Invisalign® suits older kids who prefer a discreet treatment. Does Ortho South accept insurance? Yes! We work with most major insurance providers to maximize your benefits and reduce costs. What is the age limit for orthodontic treatment? There’s no age limit! Ortho South treats patients of all ages, from children to adults. How can I schedule a consultation? Call 205-664-4140 or click HERE to schedule your free consultation.
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