Ever wonder how long orthodontic treatment really takes and what happens along the way? Dr. Richard McDermott and his team at McDermott Orthodontics break the process into clear stages so it feels less overwhelming and more exciting. From the first visit to the big day when braces come off or the final aligner is worn, there’s a natural rhythm that patients in Arnold and Florissant quickly get comfortable with. It all starts with your consultation, where the timeline officially begins!
Your Initial Consultation
Your orthodontic timeline begins the moment you walk through the doors of McDermott Orthodontics. In Arnold, the office is easy to find on Jeffco Boulevard near the Fox Schools Service Center, and in Florissant, you’ll spot the clinic in the River Oaks Professional Park across from the Jamestown Bluffs Library. No matter which location you visit, the experience starts with warm welcomes, a tour of the space, and a chance to settle in with Wi-Fi and a comfortable waiting area.
During your consultation, Dr. McDermott reviews dental history, takes photos and x-rays, and talks through treatment options like braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign®. It’s also the time to learn about flexible financing, ask about school notes for students, and see how the team makes the process easy from the start.
With this foundation set, the next step is planning your custom treatment timeline.
Planning Your Treatment
After the consultation wraps up, the real preparation begins. This is where the photos, scans, and x-rays gathered are transformed into a personalized plan by Dr. McDermott. Instead of just reviewing options, this stage puts the details in motion so treatment can officially start.
The planning process often includes:
- Crafting a timeline tailored to your needs
- Coordinating with labs to create braces, wires, or custom aligners
- Outlining appointment schedules so you know what’s ahead
- Finalizing payment arrangements and insurance coordination
This stage happens quickly, but it’s a vital bridge between your first appointment and the day treatment begins. With everything organized and ready, the next step is one many patients look forward to: the moment braces go on or aligners are handed out.
Starting Strong with Braces or Aligners
Once planning is complete, the spotlight shifts to one of the most exciting milestones — the day treatment officially begins! This appointment marks the first step in moving your smile forward and sets the rhythm for everything that follows.
The Big Day Arrives
For patients choosing metal or clear braces, the brackets and wires are placed with care. For Invisalign patients, this is when you receive your first set of trays along with instructions on how long to wear them each day.
What to Expect
The team at McDermott Orthodontics takes time to walk you through everything, so there are no surprises. Patients often leave with tips for eating, brushing, and adjusting during those first few days. Students can even request a school note if needed.
Moving Forward
The first appointment is all about getting comfortable with your new appliances and learning how to care for them. Once this stage is complete, you’ll begin the active phase of treatment, which is where regular visits, adjustments, and progress checks happen.
The Active Phase of Treatment
Once treatment begins, this is the part of the timeline where the magic really happens. Small changes at each appointment add up to big results, and the regular rhythm of visits keeps everything moving forward.
Check-Ins That Count
Every few weeks, patients return to McDermott Orthodontics for quick, but important, adjustments. These visits keep treatment on course and give you face-to-face time with Dr. Richard McDermott to review progress. Here’s what to expect:
- Braces may get a new wire or elastics
- Aligner patients switch to fresh trays
- Hygiene tips are shared to keep everything on track
- Progress is celebrated as improvements become more visible
These appointments may feel routine, but they’re the heartbeat of treatment. Every adjustment builds on the last, creating steady progress that brings the final outcome closer. Next, let’s look at the midpoint check, where progress is measured and fine-tuned.
Progress Checks and the Home Stretch
As treatment moves forward, there comes a midpoint where progress is carefully reviewed. During these visits, Dr. McDermott makes sure everything is on schedule, adjusts as needed, and provides reassurance that progress is moving in the right direction.
A typical midpoint check may include:
- Reviewing x-rays, scans, or photos to measure progress
- Adjusting wires, elastics, or aligner staging
- Updating the estimated timeline if needed
As patients get closer to the end, the changes become more noticeable and excitement builds.
Signs you’re nearing the finish line often include:
- Fewer adjustments required at visits
- Final trays or wires in place
- Visible improvements that show treatment is almost complete
Some patients also choose gum contouring or tooth manicuring for a polished final touch. Next, let’s look at the big day when braces come off or the last aligner is worn.
Braces Off and Life After Treatment
Few moments in orthodontics are more exciting than the day braces come off or the final aligner tray is finished. At McDermott Orthodontics, this milestone is celebrated with patients who have put in the time and effort to reach the end of active treatment. Brackets or attachments are carefully removed, and you’ll get a first look at your new smile in its finished form.
But treatment doesn’t end there. Retainers play an important role in keeping results in place. Patients are given instructions on how to wear and care for them, with options designed to fit different lifestyles.
Next, let’s explore how ongoing check-ins help keep smiles strong for years to come.
Keeping Smiles Strong
Even after treatment ends, the relationship with McDermott Orthodontics continues. Long-term success comes from regular check-ins with Dr. McDermott, who monitors retainers and offers advice to keep teeth healthy and stable. These visits also provide a chance for kids, teens, and adults to ask questions about oral care and learn new tips for maintaining results.
McDermott Orthodontics’ close ties with local schools and families make it easy to stay connected, reminding patients that care doesn’t stop once braces or aligners are finished.
Marking the Moments That Matter
Every orthodontic timeline has milestones, but what makes it memorable is the care and support along the way. With Dr. McDermott and the team at McDermott Orthodontics, families in Arnold and Florissant can look forward to a process that’s structured, encouraging, and worth the wait. If you’re ready to start your own countdown, book your free consultation today and begin your treatment timeline with a team that makes every stage count!