Stepping out of your first orthodontic consultation often leaves one big question: what happens next? In Rehoboth Beach, Dr. Johnson and his team at Johnson Orthodontics make the path forward feel clear and approachable. Families across Sussex County often compare the process to starting a new summer season at the beach: exciting, familiar, and something to look forward to! Next, let’s start with how your records are captured and transformed into a personalized treatment plan.
Capturing Your Smile
Once your consultation wraps up, the first step is creating a clear picture of your teeth and bite. Johnson Orthodontics uses digital scans, photos, and X-rays, building a 3D model that shows every angle. Forget the messy impression trays of the past. The scanning process is quick and comfortable, giving Dr. Johnson and his team everything they need to plan with precision. It’s a bit like mapping out a route before a summer trip down Coastal Highway: the details make the ride smoother and faster.
With those records in hand, Dr. Johnson studies the results closely, shaping a treatment plan that reflects each patient’s needs and goals. Once that plan is ready, the next step is choosing which type of orthodontic treatment fits best.
Choosing Your Treatment Path
With records complete, it’s time to choose which type of orthodontic treatment best fits your needs. Johnson Orthodontics offers several options, and each has strengths depending on your goals, habits, and lifestyle. Dr. Johnson takes time to compare choices side by side so families in Sussex County can picture what daily life might look like with each one.
- Metal Braces: Reliable for all ages, especially when correcting more complex bite issues. Brackets are smaller than they used to be, making them less noticeable, and colorful elastics let kids show school spirit.
- Clear Ceramic Braces: Blend with natural tooth color, appealing to patients who want a more subtle look during treatment.
- Invisalign Clear Aligners: Custom-made trays that are removable for meals and brushing. Perfect for grabbing some popcorn without worrying about food restrictions.
No matter the option, patients are encouraged to ask questions and consider how treatment will blend into their daily rhythm. Once a decision is made, the focus shifts to the exciting first step: placing braces or starting the first set of Invisalign trays.
Officially Starting Treatment
After choosing your treatment path, the spotlight shifts to getting started. This is where orthodontics goes from planning to action, and your first appointment marks the official kick-off.
- Braces Placement: Brackets are carefully positioned on each tooth, followed by the wire that begins guiding everything into place. The appointment is efficient, and patients walk out already on their way to change.
- Invisalign Fitting: Custom trays arrive crafted from digital scans, fitted snugly to your teeth. You’ll also learn the routine for swapping trays, storing them safely, and keeping them clear.
For kids, this first day can feel like a badge of honor. For adults, Invisalign often blends so smoothly into work meetings or social events that most people never notice.
With appliances in place, the next step is adjusting to the daily flow of care and the small habits that keep treatment moving smoothly.
Daily Care Made Simple
Once braces or aligners are in place, daily routines start to shift. Dr. Johnson and the team at Johnson Orthodontics make sure every patient knows what to expect, offering tips that turn new habits into second nature. These small adjustments quickly become part of your slower lower lifestyle, from brushing at home to eating out with friends.
Braces Routine
Life with braces means learning a few tricks to keep teeth and brackets clean. Brushing takes a little extra care, and flossing tools help reach between wires. Food choices also change slightly (Fisher’s Popcorn at the boardwalk is better saved for post-treatment, while soft fries from Thrasher’s are a safer pick).
Clear Aligner Care
Invisalign trays bring their own learning curve. They’re removed before meals, rinsed, and then slipped back in, keeping treatment discreet and flexible. Dr. Johnson makes sure every patient is given a small carrying case to protect their trays. Changing to a new set every week or two makes progress feel tangible, like hitting small milestones along the way.
As routines become comfortable, the focus turns to keeping treatment on track through regular visits and check-ins with Dr. Johnson.
Checkups, Tweaks & Tray Changes
Orthodontic progress is like tuning an instrument: small adjustments make all the difference over time. Every visit with Dr. Johnson at Johnson Orthodontics is hands-on, so families know they’re getting care that’s personal and consistent. These check-ins are the mile markers that show just how far you’ve come.
Braces Adjustments
Wires may be tightened, brackets checked, and elastics updated to keep movement steady. Many patients treat these visits as a chance to refresh their look, show their school spirit, or celebrate upcoming holidays with new elastic colors.
Invisalign Check-ins
Fresh trays are provided on a set schedule, usually every couple of weeks. These visits confirm teeth are shifting as planned and allow Dr. Johnson to make fine-tuned changes that keep progress smooth.
Each appointment is steady, forward-moving, and brings you closer to the finish line. Next comes the moment everyone looks forward to: braces coming off or slipping in that last aligner tray, followed by retainers to lock in the results.
Final Pass & Retainer Phase
The finish line in orthodontics doesn’t arrive with fanfare, but it does bring a moment worth remembering. For braces, the day your brackets and wires come off feels like peeling away layers to reveal the work underneath. Invisalign patients experience a quieter milestone, sliding in that last tray and realizing the shift is complete.
Retainers become your new companions at this stage. Clear options or small fixed wires hold everything steady, letting patients enjoy the outcome without worry. Dr. Johnson explains how to keep retainers clean and effective, making the routine simple enough to fit into daily life.
With this final step, families leave Johnson Orthodontics knowing their new smiles are built to last.
The Real Adventure Begins
The truth is, orthodontic treatment unfolds in stages, each one moving you closer to lasting results. Every step at Johnson Orthodontics happens with Dr. Johnson’s expertise guiding the way. Families all over Sussex County have already seen how personal care can make all the difference. Now it’s your turn: book a free consultation today and see how your story takes shape!
