Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics (also called dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist with two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist can straighten teeth, correct jaw alignment, and improve how your smile works.
What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?
If you want to improve how your smile looks and feels, any age is a great age to come in. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first visit around age seven, but treatment isn't only for kids and teens. About one in five orthodontic patients is over 21. Whether it's for you or your child, any time is a good time to see the orthodontist.
How do I care for my teeth with braces or a retainer?
- Always brush after every meal and floss at least once a day.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste, and ask your orthodontist or family dentist whether a fluoride rinse would help. It's a great way to prevent cavities!
- If you take your retainer out to eat, brush, floss, and keep the retainer safe in its case so it doesn't get lost or broken.
- Keep your retainer clean by brushing it gently with toothpaste. You can also soak it in denture cleaner as your orthodontist directs. Never use boiling water or the dishwasher.
- Go easy on sugary foods during treatment, since sugar feeds the bacteria that cause plaque and cavities.
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice), and anything that gets stuck in braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy).
- Keep up your routine checkups with your family dentist, every six months is the standard.
What are braces?
Your orthodontist uses braces to improve how your smile looks and feels. There are several types to choose from, including:
- Clear braces
- Ceramic braces
- Self-ligating braces
- Invisible braces
- Traditional metal braces
If I get braces, how long do I wear them?
Time in braces varies from person to person, because every smile responds differently. Treatment can run anywhere from six to 30 months, though most cases take about 22 months.
Do braces hurt?
Braces usually don't hurt, though you may feel a little discomfort for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth adjust.
Do I need to brush more often with braces?
Yes. With braces, brush at least three times a day to keep everything healthy and clean and to clear out any trapped food. Floss daily to reach the spots between your braces that a brush can't. Your orthodontist will show you how to brush and floss once your braces are on.
With braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
Absolutely, and it matters even more during treatment. Braces can trap food in places your toothbrush misses, which lets bacteria build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist works closely with your orthodontist to keep your teeth clean and healthy along the way.
Will braces get in the way of sports, instruments, or singing?
You might need a little adjustment time when you first get braces, but they won't keep you from any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Give us a call! Our front desk team is happy to find a time that works for you. If you're a new patient or have been referred to us, let us know and we'll get you everything you need.
