If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide to starting orthodontic treatment, you’re in the right place! Good news: getting orthodontic treatment is easier than you might think. At Premier Smiles Orthodontics, we’re here to make your treatment as simple as possible. We have multiple locations throughout Cuyahoga County and Lake County: Shaker Heights, University Heights, Parma, Willowick, and Warrensville Heights. Dr. Roman Achberger, Dr. Jeffrey Dworkin, Dr. Dale Kates, Dr. Elizabeth Blake Swearingen, Dr. Aya Mansour, and Dr. Sumeet Minhas can guide you through the steps of your orthodontic journey.
Step 1: Schedule Your First Consultation
Your first step is simple. Call or click here to book your consultation. There’s no pressure and no commitment. This visit gives you a chance to meet the team, see the office, and get your orthodontic treatment started.
At your first orthodontic appointment, one of our experienced orthodontists will take a close look at your teeth and bite. We use digital scanners to capture 3D images of your smile, with no messy impressions required (woohoo!). The doctors will go over your goals and address. Dr. Archberger, Dr. Dworkin, Dr. Kates, Dr. Swearingen, Dr. Mansour, or Dr. Minhas will also discuss treatment options like metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners.
Step 2: Review Your Custom Treatment Plan
After your first orthodontic consultation, your doctor will design a plan tailored just for you or your child. That plan will outline the type of orthodontic treatment you should have, the duration, and the expected results.
At Premier Smiles Orthodontics, we offer several options:
- Metal braces for durability and precision
- Clear ceramic braces for a more subtle look
- Invisalignfor flexible, nearly invisible treatment
Your doctor will help you compare these choices and recommend the one that fits your lifestyle, age, and goals. Many of our doctors are board-certified orthodontists, so you get top-of-the-line care. Find us easily in Shaker Heights, University Heights, Parma, Willowick, or Warrensville Heights.
Step 3: Talk Through Timing and Cost
Once you know which treatment is right for you, our Premier Smiles Orthodontics team will go over the details that matter most to families: time and money. Most patients wear braces or aligners for about 12 to 24 months, depending on their case. Kids, teens, and adults may all have different needs, and we’ll explain the orthodontic treatment timeline clearly.
When it comes to payment, we keep things simple and stress-free. Premier Smiles Orthodontics accepts most insurance plans and offers in-house financing with low monthly payments. There are no hidden fees, and we’ll walk through every cost upfront so there are no surprises later.
Step 4: Get Started with Braces or Aligners
Once you’re ready to start your orthodontic treatment, our team will schedule your bonding or aligner delivery. For braces, your doctor will gently attach the brackets and wires during a comfortable, relaxed appointment. We’ll review the care instructions, including what to eat and what to avoid.
If you’re beginning orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, we’ll make sure they fit and teach you how to wear them. You’ll need to wear them 20 to 22 hours a day and switch to a new set about every one to two weeks. You may also use a tracking app to monitor progress and stay on schedule.
Step 5: Regular Check-ins to Stay on Track
Getting orthodontic treatment is a process, and we’re with you every step of the way. You’ll visit us in Shaker Heights, University Heights, Parma, Willowick, or Warrensville Heights every six to ten weeks.
Your orthodontic visits are quick and easy. We’ll ensure everything is functioning properly, make any necessary adjustments, and address any questions you may have. If you’re using aligners, we’ll check fit and progress. If you have braces, we’ll adjust wires and keep everything comfortable.
Step 6: Finish Strong with Retainers
Your treatment keeps going once you’re finished with braces or Invisalign. You’ve taken the initial step of starting orthodontic treatment, and you’ve seen it through. Now it’s time to protect the new smile you’ve worked so hard for. Enter: the retainer.
Retainers are custom-made to fit your new smile. You might get a clear, removable retainer or a small bonded wire behind your teeth. Your doctor will explain the pros and cons of each and recommend the right one for you.
Wearing your Premier Smiles Orthodontics retainer is key to preserving all the effort you’ve put in. Dr. Achberger, Dr. Dworkin, Dr. Kates, Dr. Swearingen, Dr. Mansour, and Dr. Minhas don’t want all your success undone, and neither do you!
Step 7: Keep Your Smile Healthy with Good Habits
Brushing and flossing every day is more important than ever during and after orthodontic treatment. Braces and aligners can trap food and plaque, which can lead to stains or cavities if you’re not careful. Make sure to follow your doctor’s brushing tips and use any special tools they recommend.
You’ll also need to keep up with your checkups. Even after braces or aligners are removed, your teeth can still move back to their original positions. Regular visits to Premier Smiles Orthodontics help us catch changes early and make sure your retainer is doing its job.
Start Orthodontic TreatmentWith the Right Team
It’s time to begin your orthodontic treatment with a professional team. At Premier Smiles Orthodontics, we take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and help you feel at ease from day one. Our experienced doctors (including Dr. Achberger, Dr. Dworkin, Dr. Kates, Dr. Swearingen, Dr. Mansour, and Dr. Minhas) treat patients of all ages across Shaker Heights, University Heights, Parma, Willowick, and Warrensville Heights. Go here to schedule your first consultation with our team.