If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth, you’re not alone. Braces remain one of the most effective and time-tested ways to correct crowding, spacing, and bite issues for both kids and adults. But for many patients, the biggest source of hesitation isn’t the treatment itself—it’s the uncertainty about what the process actually looks like from start to finish.
At 63 Family Dental, we believe an informed patient is a confident patient. Whether you’re exploring options for your child or considering braces for yourself, this guide walks you through every stage of orthodontic treatment so you can move forward without surprises.
Stage 1: The Initial Consultation
Every braces journey begins with a conversation. During your first visit, your orthodontist will examine your teeth, jaw alignment, and bite. At 63 Family Dental, this evaluation may include digital X-rays and, in many cases, a scan using advanced imaging technology to get a precise picture of your oral structure—no messy impressions required.
This is also the appointment where you’ll discuss your goals, timeline, and budget. Our team will walk you through treatment options, including traditional metal braces and clear aligner alternatives. If you’re curious about a removable option, you can also learn more about our Invisalign clear braces to see whether that path might suit your lifestyle better.
Stage 2: Getting Your Braces Fitted
Once you’ve decided to move forward, the next appointment is all about placement. Your orthodontist will clean and dry your teeth, then bond small brackets to the surface of each tooth using a dental adhesive. An archwire is threaded through the brackets and secured with small elastic bands.
The fitting appointment typically takes one to two hours. Your teeth won’t move during this visit—that process begins gradually in the days that follow as the wire applies gentle, consistent pressure. Most patients notice mild soreness for the first few days, which is completely normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods.
Stage 3: Regular Adjustment Appointments
Orthodontic treatment works incrementally. Every four to eight weeks, you’ll return to the practice for an adjustment appointment. During these visits, your orthodontist will replace or tighten the archwire and check your progress. Each adjustment nudges your teeth a little closer to their target positions.
These appointments are also a great time to ask questions, flag any discomfort, and get a sense of how your treatment is progressing. Our experienced dental team takes time at every visit to make sure you understand what’s happening and what comes next.
Good oral hygiene becomes especially important during this phase. Brackets and wires create additional surfaces where plaque can accumulate, so brushing after every meal and using floss threaders or interdental brushes is essential for keeping your gums healthy throughout treatment.
Stage 4: Monitoring Progress and Mid-Treatment Adjustments
Midway through your treatment, your orthodontist will take updated X-rays or scans to assess how your teeth and roots are responding. For most patients, this is also when more refined movements are addressed—rotating individual teeth, closing gaps, or fine-tuning your bite.
In some cases, additional appliances such as rubber bands or a palate expander may be introduced to help with jaw alignment or bite correction. Your care team will explain the purpose of any new additions and how to use them properly at home.
If you’re wondering how our orthodontic services handle complex cases or multi-phase treatment, our team is happy to walk through the specifics during any appointment.
Stage 5: Braces Removal and Retention
The day your braces come off is a milestone worth celebrating. Your orthodontist will carefully remove the brackets and wire, then polish away any remaining adhesive. The result is the straighter smile you’ve been working toward.
But the journey doesn’t end there. Retention is one of the most important—and most overlooked—phases of orthodontic treatment. Once braces are removed, teeth have a natural tendency to shift back toward their original positions. A retainer, worn as directed, holds everything in place while the bone and surrounding tissue stabilize around the new alignment.
Retainers may be removable (worn at night) or fixed (bonded to the back of your teeth). Your orthodontist will recommend the type that best suits your situation and explain exactly how and when to wear it.
Making Braces Work for Your Life in Chicago
Living in a busy city means your dental care needs to fit your schedule. 63 Family Dental is conveniently located at 6258 S Pulaski Rd in Chicago, IL 60629, and we work hard to offer appointment times that accommodate families, students, and working adults alike. If cost is a consideration, our team can discuss flexible financing options to help make treatment accessible without financial stress.
If you’d like to explore other helpful resources, keep an eye out for our related posts, including Affordable Braces in Chicago: What to Look For and Why 63 Family Dental Is Chicago’s Top Family Dentist, which go deeper into cost considerations and what sets our practice apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does braces treatment typically take?
Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of your case, but most patients wear braces for 12 to 24 months. Your orthodontist will give you a personalized estimate after your initial evaluation.
Do braces hurt?
Braces don’t cause sharp pain, but it’s normal to feel pressure and mild soreness for a day or two after each adjustment. Most patients find this very manageable and it fades quickly as your mouth adapts.
Can adults get braces in Chicago?
Absolutely. Orthodontic treatment is effective at any age. Many adults at 63 Family Dental pursue braces or clear aligner options to address issues they’ve had for years or to correct shifting that occurred after previous treatment.
What’s the difference between braces and Invisalign?
Traditional braces use fixed brackets and wires to move teeth, while Invisalign uses a series of removable clear aligners. Both can address a wide range of alignment issues. The best choice depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and preferences—something your orthodontist can help you decide.
Does 63 Family Dental accept insurance for braces?
We accept most PPO insurance plans. Our team can help verify your coverage before treatment begins so you have a clear picture of your out-of-pocket costs.
Ready to take the first step toward a straighter smile? Call 63 Family Dental at 773-777-6363 or visit us at 6258 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60629 to schedule your free consultation. Our team is here to answer every question and make your braces experience as smooth and rewarding as possible.