WHAT ARE MY RESPONSIBILITIES SO MY TREATMENT GOES WELL?
WHAT ARE MY RESPONSIBILITIES SO MY TREATMENT GOES WELL?
EXPECTATIONS From DIGITAL ORTHODONTICS - Solo Edition by Dr. Bak Nguyen
I don't like the word responsibility, because that starts with the fact that you are doing something that you may despise. Clear orthodontics is based on 2 main components:
medicine, physic, and technology. In other words, the mechanics.
compliance, follow-ups, discipline, and motivation. In other words, the human factor.
So the doctor's responsibility covers the mechanics part. The human part, which is 50% of the success of your treatment, is your responsibility. Your attending doctor will make sure to prepare you for the journey, planing the treatment plan, programing the aligners, and dental works. He or she will also spend the time to explain the how-to and logic of each step.
Then, if is up to you to wear your aligners (20 to 22 hours a day), to send pictures, and to show up at your following-up appointments. That's discipline. Hygiene is also a big part of your responsibility, to brush, floss, and clean your aligners at each meal. Of course, losing your aligners will be an error from your part, one that may imply extra fees and time.
Discipline, hygiene, and maintenance (of the aligners and dental cleaning every 3-4 months) are your responsibility. About fees, keep in mind that the orthodontic fees usually cover the aligners and the follow-up regarding moving your teeth, not maintenance and general dentistry. So to keep your fees low, it is your responsibility to keep a clean and stable mouth throughout the orthodontic treatment.
This is something that has to be clear and discuss with your attending at your consultation. Even if most of them will give you the same answer, it is a must for you to agree on the rules of engagement. As a general rule, an educated and motivated patient will have a much better experience throughout his or her treatment. It is like having a map, a GPS, and enjoying the ride. The map is the treatment plan, the GPS is the aligners part and the ride, well that the experience between you and your attending.
For people with motivation and collaboration problems, braces are may be a better alternative of treatment.