Orthodontic treatment with braces is a gradual and carefully monitored process. Each visit is scheduled with a specific purpose: whether it’s tightening wires, making small corrections, or checking alignment progress. But life happens. Sometimes, patients have to reschedule or miss appointments altogether. While it’s normal to have occasional disruptions, it’s important to understand what really happens when adjustments are skipped or delayed, and how to get back on track without panic or guilt.
Missing an orthodontic appointment doesn’t mean your treatment is ruined. However, delays can extend the overall timeline, reduce treatment effectiveness, and in some cases, lead to discomfort or complications. Knowing what’s at stake (and how to address it) helps patients maintain progress and avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Why Regular Adjustments Matter In Your Braces Journey
Braces work by applying consistent, controlled pressure to move teeth into their ideal positions. This movement is not random; it’s guided and adjusted over time by your orthodontist based on how your teeth are responding.
During each visit, wires may be tightened, elastics may be changed, or brackets might be repositioned. These adjustments keep your treatment plan on course and prevent the teeth from stalling or drifting into unintended positions. Skipping appointments breaks this rhythm, slowing progress and sometimes undoing previous gains.
In Surrey, where orthodontic practices like PacificWest Dental Group follow detailed treatment timelines, consistency in follow-up care is part of what ensures quality results in a reasonable timeframe.
What Can Happen If You Delay Or Miss Appointments
Not all missed appointments have the same consequences. If it’s a simple delay of a week or two, your treatment may only be slightly extended. But repeated or prolonged gaps can lead to more noticeable issues. Below is a list of common outcomes associated with skipping orthodontic check-ins:
- Slower tooth movement due to reduced or stagnant force applied by outdated wires or elastics;
- Unintended shifting if teeth start moving in the wrong direction without supervision;
- Breakage or wear of brackets or wires that go unnoticed and worsen over time;
- Oral hygiene issues like plaque buildup around braces that aren’t regularly monitored;
- Increased treatment time that could add several months to your overall plan;
- Discomfort or tightness if wires aren’t adjusted according to your progress.
These effects are usually manageable if addressed early, but they can build up if appointments continue to be missed.
How To Get Back On Track With Your Braces
If you’ve missed a visit, the most important step is to call your orthodontist and explain the situation. In most cases, your orthodontic team will simply reschedule and make any necessary changes to keep your plan moving forward.
Be honest about how long it’s been since your last adjustment and whether you’ve experienced any discomfort, broken appliances, or issues with your elastics. It’s also helpful to be extra diligent with oral hygiene during any delays, since your mouth won’t be receiving its usual check-in and cleaning guidance.
Staying informed and taking initiative shows your commitment to your treatment, and your orthodontist will work with you to minimize any impact. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being proactive.
Braces In Surrey: Stay On Schedule With PacificWest Dental Group
If you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment and have missed an appointment, don’t stress. The team at PacificWest Dental Group is here to support your journey, whether you’re right on track or need help getting back into your adjustment schedule. Our braces specialists in Surrey can assess your progress, provide updated recommendations, and ensure your smile keeps moving in the right direction. Reach out today to book your next visit and keep your braces working effectively.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
