Orthodontic FAQs

Patients often ask us the same questions. We have a thing for sharing knowledge and education (if you haven’t noticed), so we’ve provided some of the most common inquiries—and our answers—below.

Orthodontist holding dentures with braces

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.

What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

How can I take care of my teeth if I'm wearing braces or a retainer?

ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.
Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities.
Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).
Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.

What are braces?

Braces are used by your orthodontist to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:

Clear braces
Ceramic braces
Lingual braces
Self-ligating braces
Invisible braces
Traditional metal braces

If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?

The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.

Do braces hurt?

Braces do not often hurt though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.

Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?

You should brush your teeth at least three times a day with braces to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Regular brushing will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. Additionally, you should floss daily to reach between your braces where your brush cannot. Your orthodontist can demonstrate the proper way to brush and floss once they place your braces.

If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?

Yes! In fact, it’s even more important for patients receiving orthodontic treatment to visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may get caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This situation causes bacteria to build up, which can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will closely collaborate with your orthodontist to ensure that your teeth remain clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Will my braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?

When you first get your braces, playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment, but wearing braces will not prevent you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, we recommend wearing a mouth guard to protect your braces or appliance.

How do I schedule my next appointment?

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will happily help you schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or someone who has referred you to our practice, please inform us, and we will give you all the information you need.