Understanding the Braces Application Process: What to Expect During Your Appointment

For anyone beginning their teeth straightening journey, understanding the braces application process can make the experience less intimidating and more predictable. While traditional braces have been a reliable orthodontic solution for decades, modern options like clear aligners are offering a more discreet, comfortable alternative. At Smileie, we aim to help you make the best choice for your smile, whether you’re considering metal braces or an at-home aligner kit.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each stage of a typical braces application appointment and explain how you can explore faster, more convenient teeth straightening solutions with Smileie.

1. The Initial Consultation

Before any treatment begins, your orthodontist will schedule a consultation to examine your teeth, gums, and jaw alignment. This step usually involves:

• A visual assessment of your bite and tooth position.

• Dental X-rays to check underlying bone structure.

• Impressions or digital scans to map your teeth accurately.

At this stage, the orthodontist determines whether braces are the best option or if you might be a good candidate for clear aligners like those from Smileie.

Tip: Smileie’s free online assessment makes this process even easier. You can find out if you’re a candidate for aligners without visiting a clinic.

2. Teeth Cleaning and Preparation

On the day of your braces application appointment, your orthodontist will start by cleaning your teeth thoroughly. This ensures that no plaque or food particles interfere with the adhesive that secures the brackets.

Some patients may also need spacers placed between teeth a week before the appointment if there’s not enough room for orthodontic bands.

If you choose Smileie clear aligners instead, your preparation process will look different. Our at-home impression kit or in-person scan will create a custom 3D model of your teeth, without any need for metal brackets or wires.

3. Bonding the Brackets

The most time-consuming part of the braces application process is attaching the brackets to your teeth. Here’s how it works:

• Etching: A mild solution roughens the surface of each tooth for better adhesion.

• Bonding: Special dental glue is applied to secure the bracket in place.

• Positioning: The orthodontist uses a template to ensure precise bracket placement.

This step can take up to an hour, depending on the complexity of your case. With clear aligners, however, there are no brackets or wires at all, your aligners are custom-made and simply snap over your teeth.

4. Placing the Archwire and Bands

Once the brackets are secure, the orthodontist threads an archwire through them and fastens it with tiny rubber bands. The archwire is what gradually moves your teeth into alignment.

You’ll likely feel some pressure or tightness at this stage. This is completely normal, it means your treatment is starting to work.

With Smileie clear aligners, you’ll still feel gentle pressure, but it’s evenly distributed across your teeth, making it generally more comfortable than traditional braces.

5. Post-Application Instructions

After your braces are fitted, your orthodontist will explain:

• What foods to avoid (hard, sticky, or chewy items).

• How to brush and floss around brackets.

• When to return for tightening appointments (usually every 4–6 weeks).

For Smileie customers, post-application care is much simpler. You’ll get a set of aligners with clear instructions on when to switch to your next set, and you can maintain your regular brushing and flossing routine without brackets getting in the way.

6. Considering Your Treatment Options: Braces vs. Smileie Clear Aligners

While traditional braces are effective for complex cases, Smileie’s clear aligners offer a faster, more convenient, and more discreet alternative for many people.

Why Choose Smileie?

• No frequent clinic visits – treatment can be managed remotely.

• Discreet and comfortable – no wires or brackets.

• Flexible pricing – check out our pricing options and our pay-once plan for the most cost-effective route.

• Customised fit – made from your dental scans or impressions.

Smileie treatment plans start with a one-time upfront payment or an affordable monthly plan, making high-quality teeth straightening accessible to more people.

7. Managing Discomfort and Adjusting to Your New Smile

It’s normal to experience some discomfort after braces are applied. You might notice:

• Soreness in your teeth and gums for a few days.

• Irritation on the inside of your cheeks from brackets.

• A temporary change in speech.

Clear aligners, on the other hand, tend to cause milder discomfort and don’t irritate the cheeks or lips since there are no sharp metal components.

8. Long-Term Care for the Best Results

No matter which treatment you choose, commitment is key. That means:

• Following your orthodontist’s or Smileie’s wear schedule.

• Maintaining excellent oral hygiene.

• Wearing retainers after treatment to keep your teeth in their new position.

With Smileie, your treatment plan includes a clear roadmap to your dream smile, along with expert support throughout your journey.

The Bottom Line

The braces application process involves several steps, from the initial consultation to bonding, wire placement, and follow-up care. While traditional braces remain an effective solution for many, modern advancements like Smileie’s clear aligners offer a comfortable, convenient, and discreet way to achieve your perfect smile.

If you’re ready to explore a flexible, at-home option for teeth straightening, learn how Smileie works and choose a pricing plan that suits your needs.

Ready to start your smile journey?
Visit Smileie.com today to see how we can help you achieve a straighter smile, without the hassle of traditional braces.