If you are seeking same-day braces in Seattle, chances are that you want to start treatment soon without unnecessary advance visits. A number of orthodontic providers in the area have added convenient options that make it possible to visit and get examined, imaged and fitted for braces all within a day. Although individual availability varies, placement on the same day may be feasible when a patient’s dentition is in good health, and no significant pre-surgical intervention is necessary.
Here’s a helpful overview of what to expect when you’re seeking braces in Seattle, as well as precautions, length of treatment and taking care of your teeth.
How Same-Day Braces Usually Work
Same-day braces indicates that there is no delay between your evaluation and bracket placement. The typical process includes:
a brief consult and treatment plan brainstorm
Digital scans or impressions
Treatment planning using imaging
If you’re eligible, braces can be placed on the same day
Same-day placement isn’t available to everyone, but many patients with healthy gums, no active decay and straightforward alignment needs will qualify.
Precautions Before Getting Same-Day Braces
Although the procedure is quick, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Oral health check: Ensure you don’t have untreated cavities, gum inflammation and/or infections.
Past dental problems: If you’ve had work done recently, make sure you’re healed up properly.
Bite and jaw problems: Serious orthodontic problems cannot get corrected in addition to placement.
Allergy note: Let your provider know about any metal allergies or sensitivities.
Expected Duration of Treatment
Same-day implant placement does not reduce the total treatment time. Common timelines include:
Mild alignment issues: 6–12 months
Moderate cases: 12–20 months
Complex cases: 18–30 months
The length of the treatment is dependent on how much your teeth need to move and whether you are following care instructions.
Diet After Getting Same-Day Braces
And, once your braces are on, you can also make a few adjustments to your diet so you don’t accidentally break -- or even dislodge -- them:
Select soft foods during the first few days (yogurt, soups, mashed potatoes, and soft noodles).
Stay away from sticky, chewy or crunchy foods such as caramel, gum, nuts and hard chips.
Dice fruits and veggies into small bits to minimize stress on brackets.
Avoid sugary drinks Sugar can lead to the accumulation of plaque around brackets, so limit soda and other sugary beverages.
Concerns After Same-Day Braces
Some mild soreness for a few days is not unusual. Other common concerns include:
Tight or Pressure: A good feeling when teeth start to move.
Abrasion to lips or cheeks: Your orthodontist should give you some wax for this during the adjustment phase.
Loose wires or brackets: Get in touch with your provider as soon as you discover a problem with your hardware.
Cleaning is challenging: Change to a soft-bristle brush and use floss threaders or orthodontic flossers.
Is the Same-Day Placement for Me?
Same-day braces in Seattle are the first preference for those interested in quick and efficient treatment start-up. If you have great oral health and your alignment needs are relatively basic, you could be an ideal candidate. A detailed consultation will be necessary to ascertain whether same day placement is safe and beneficial in your case.