If you're getting braces at Ortho South, you're in great hands with Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed. With locations in Pelham and Calera, Alabama, Ortho South has earned a 5-star Google rating from over 635 satisfied patients. This guide walks you through the banding process, the first step in your smile journey to a straighter, healthier smile.

What Is Banding in Orthodontics?

Banding is the process of placing braces on your teeth. During your first visit at Ortho South, the orthodontic team carefully attaches brackets and wires to your teeth to begin the realignment process. Whether you're getting traditional braces or considering Invisalign®, this appointment is crucial in transforming your smile.

Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Braces Appointment

1. Welcome to Ortho South – Your Smile Journey Begins!

From the moment you step into Ortho South Pelham or Calera, you’ll be greeted with warm smiles and friendly faces. Our team is dedicated to making you feel at home, ensuring that your first visit is both exciting and stress-free. This is the beginning of something special—the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile, and we’re honored to be part of your journey!

What to Expect:

✔ A warm welcome and easy check-in process
✔ Friendly staff to answer all your questions
✔ Paperwork and medical history review (we’ll guide you through it!)
✔ X-rays and digital scans to get a clear picture of your smile
✔ One-on-one consultation with Dr. Boggan or Dr. Syed, where they’ll listen to your concerns and walk you through your personalized treatment plan

We know that starting orthodontic treatment can feel like a big step, but we’re here to make it fun, easy, and exciting. You’re not just getting braces—you’re joining the Ortho South family, and we can’t wait to see you smile! 😊

2. Orthodontic Examination & Consultation

After check-in, one of the experienced orthodontists—Dr. Brandon Boggan or Dr. Zehra Syed—will perform a thorough orthodontic evaluation.

What the Doctor Will Check:

• Tooth alignment
• Bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
• Jaw positioning
• Space for tooth movement
  
  

This is also the time to discuss whether traditional braces or Invisalign® is the right choice for you.

3. Cleaning & Preparing Your Teeth

Before braces are placed, your teeth must be clean and dry to ensure strong adhesion. Our smile experts will:

✔ Polish your teeth to remove plaque

✔ Dry your teeth to prepare for bonding

✔ Apply a conditioning solution to help brackets stick

4. Placing the Brackets

This is where the magic happens! Dr. Boggan or Dr. Syed will carefully place the brackets on your teeth using a special adhesive.

Steps in the Bracket Placement Process:

1. Applying Bonding Glue – A small amount of adhesive is applied to each tooth.
2. Placing Brackets – Brackets are attached to the center of each tooth.
3. Curing Light – A special light is used to harden the adhesive.

5. Attaching the Archwire & Bands

Once the brackets are secured, your orthodontist will insert the archwire, the thin metal wire that connects the brackets and helps guide your teeth into alignment.

The Final Steps in the Banding Process:

✔ Archwire Insertion – Your orthodontist threads the wire through the brackets.

✔ Elastic Bands Placement – Small rubber bands hold the wire in place.

✔ Final Adjustments – Your orthodontist ensures everything is comfortable and secure.

6. Getting Used to Your New Braces

It's normal to feel some tightness or mild soreness after getting braces. Your mouth is adjusting to the gentle pressure that will move your teeth over time.

What to Expect After Getting Braces:

• Slight discomfort for a few days
• Increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods
• Speech changes (temporary as your mouth adjusts)
  
  

To help with soreness, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers and eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.

7. Braces Care & Maintenance

Taking care of your braces is crucial to ensure a smooth orthodontic journey.

How to Keep Your Braces Clean:

✔ Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush

✔ Floss daily using special floss threaders

✔ Avoid sticky and hard foods that could damage your brackets

8. Scheduling Your Follow-Up Visits

Your first braces appointment is just the beginning! Regular check-ups are essential to adjust your braces and monitor your progress.

📅 Follow-up visits are usually scheduled every 4-6 weeks.

During these visits, your orthodontist will:

✔ Tighten or adjust the archwire

✔ Replace elastic bands

✔ Check tooth movement progress

9. Invisalign® as an Alternative to Braces

Ortho South is Alabama's Most Experienced Aligner Provider if you're considering a more discreet option. Invisalign® offers a comfortable and nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth.

Why Choose Invisalign®?

✔ Clear, removable aligners

✔ No food restrictions

✔ Easier oral hygiene maintenance

Ask Dr. Boggan or Dr. Syed if Invisalign® is right for you!

10. Why Choose Ortho South?

With two convenient locations in Pelham and Calera, AL, Ortho South provides expert orthodontic care in a warm and welcoming environment.

✔ Led by Dr. Brandon Boggan & Dr. Zehra Syed

✔ Over 635+ 5-star Google reviews

✔ Flexible payment options & insurance assistance

Conclusion: Start Your Smile Journey Today!

Getting braces is an exciting step toward achieving a beautiful, confident smile, and at Ortho South, you're in the best hands. Whether you're looking for traditional braces or a more discreet option like Invisalign®, Dr. Brandon Boggan and Dr. Zehra Syed will guide you through every phase of your orthodontic journey.

Your first braces appointment may seem overwhelming, but Ortho South makes the process seamless and comfortable. From your initial consultation to final adjustments, our team ensures your treatment is customized to fit your needs. We answer your questions, explain every step, and provide the highest quality orthodontic care in Pelham and Calera, Alabama.

With over 635+ 5-star reviews, Ortho South has built a strong reputation for expert orthodontic treatment and exceptional patient care. The practice's commitment to advanced technology, personalized treatment plans, and flexible payment options makes achieving your dream smile easier than ever.

If you're ready to begin your smile transformation, now is the perfect time to book your first visit at Ortho South. Every great smile starts with a single step, and the team at Ortho South is excited to help you along the way.

So what are you waiting for? Take the first step today—because your perfect smile is worth it!

📍 Schedule your Free Consultation Today:

🌐 Click HERE

📞 Phone: 205-664-4140

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does getting braces hurt?

Getting braces doesn't hurt, but you may experience mild discomfort for a few days as your teeth adjust.

2. How long does the banding process take?

The entire first appointment, including bracket placement and archwire attachment, usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.

3. Can I eat right after getting braces?

Yes, but for the first few days, stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes.

4. What foods should I avoid with braces?

To prevent damage, avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods like gum, popcorn, and hard candies.

5. How often do I visit the orthodontist after getting braces?

Regular check-ups are scheduled every 4-6 weeks to adjust your braces and monitor progress.