Straightening your teeth is a meaningful decision, and knowing what lies ahead makes the process far less stressful. Whether you are a parent exploring options for your child or an adult thinking about your own smile, a little preparation goes a long way.
At Greater Hartford Orthodontics in Newington, CT, we work with patients of all ages. This guide walks you through four things worth knowing before you begin:
- What orthodontic treatment can address
- What to expect at your first consultation
- The treatment options we offer
- Practical factors to consider before you start
What Orthodontic Treatment Can Address
Orthodontic care does more than improve how your smile looks — it also improves how your teeth fit together when you bite. Treatment can correct malocclusions such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, deep bites, and crooked teeth, as well as other imperfections of the teeth and jaws. In some cases, braces work alongside other orthodontic appliances to make those corrections.
A well-aligned bite supports better long-term dental health in ways that go beyond appearance. When teeth come together properly, everyday tasks like chewing become easier. Our focus on orthodontics means we have the technology and training to build a treatment plan suited to your specific needs, whatever your age.
What to Expect at Your First Consultation
Your treatment begins with a consultation with Dr. Edward Cos, our orthodontist in Newington, CT. This is a relaxed conversation — not a commitment. Dr. Cos reviews the best alternatives for your orthodontic care, addresses any questions you have about your treatment, and provides a plan for your orthodontic therapy.
Come prepared with questions. Here are a few worth thinking about in advance:
- Which treatment options fit your situation
- What the recommended plan involves
- How the process supports your goals
By the end of the visit, you will have a clear picture of the path forward.
Treatment Options Available at Our Practice
No two smiles are the same, so we offer several ways to straighten teeth. The right choice depends on your needs, your preferences, and Dr. Cos's recommendation. Here is what we provide at Greater Hartford Orthodontics:
- Metal braces – The traditional method of straightening teeth, still the most popular option for their high-quality results.
- Clear braces – A ceramic option that adults and teenagers favor when they want results without the look of metal.
- H4® self-ligating braces – Braces that thread the wire through the brackets rather than using elastics or metal ties.
- Invisalign® – Virtually invisible clear aligners that offer a more discreet way to transform your smile.
- Retainers – Custom appliances we make using advanced technology to fit your mouth and help you maintain your results.
- Palatal expander device (PED) – An appliance designed to space teeth and expand the palate when needed properly.
- Early treatment – Care for younger patients that addresses developing concerns before they worsen.
During your consultation, we help you weigh these options so you can move ahead with confidence.
Practical Considerations Before You Start
Age and Timing
Orthodontic treatment works for patients of all ages. We strongly believe in early treatment, which can begin as early as age 7. Starting early lets us prevent problems from forming rather than waiting for them to appear and correcting them later — a more effective approach that can also mean less time in braces as a teenager. For braces specifically, we typically wait until the adult teeth have erupted, usually between ages 11 and 14. However, exceptions exist — for example, we may use braces to help pull down a partially erupted tooth in cases involving impacted canines.
Retainers and Ongoing Commitment
Finishing active treatment is not quite the end of the journey. Wearing your retainer as directed helps you avoid dental relapse, and we determine the length of retainer wear on a case-by-case basis depending on your needs and the type of retainer you have. Staying committed to your care plan — including follow-up visits and any appliance instructions — protects the results you worked toward.
A Quick Checklist Before You Begin
- Confirm the treatment option that fits your goals
- Understand your recommended plan and what it involves
- Plan for retainer wear after active treatment
- Be ready to keep up with scheduled appointments
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Orthodontics can correct a wide range of bite and alignment concerns. Your first consultation provides a personalized plan, and we offer several treatment options to suit your needs. Keeping timing, retainers, and ongoing care in mind sets you up for lasting results.
When you are ready, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cos. We will review your options, answer your questions, and help you decide whether treatment is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
Is it better to get Invisalign from a dentist or orthodontist?
After graduating from dental school, orthodontists complete an additional 2 to 3 years of education focused on orthodontics. This provides us with advanced knowledge and training in tooth movement and the correction of malocclusions — making an orthodontist the best-qualified provider for Invisalign treatment.
Can I get Invisalign instead of braces?
Invisalign suits most patients, but it is not right for everyone. During your consultation, we assess your orthodontic needs and recommend the course of treatment best suited to help you meet your goals and achieve a beautiful smile.
Do braces hurt?
Braces can feel uncomfortable at first — it takes time to get used to the constant pressure on your teeth, but that pressure is exactly what moves them into place. After the first week or so of soreness, you may feel mild discomfort for a day after each tightening appointment, and over-the-counter pain relievers work well to ease it.
When should you start orthodontic treatment?
Early treatment can begin as young as age 7. Starting sooner lets us prevent problems from forming rather than correcting them later, which is often more effective and can mean less time in braces as a teenager.
How long do you wear a retainer?
We determine retainer wear time on a case-by-case basis, depending on your needs and the type of retainer you have. Wearing it as directed protects your results and helps you avoid dental relapse.
Greater Hartford Orthodontics is the orthodontic practice of Dr. Edward Cos in Newington, CT, serving children, teens, and adults across Central Connecticut. We offer braces, Invisalign, retainers, and more to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile. To schedule a consultation or ask a question, contact us.