Orthodontic FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and jaw abnormalities.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training after completing Dental School. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, aid in the correction of certain jaw problems and improve 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 are 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.
- Take out your retainer to eat and make sure you brush and floss your teeth afterwards. Remember to keep your retainer 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.
- During your treatment, try to avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar. These sugary foods increase the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and 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 types of braces, including:
- Traditional Braces,
- Clear braces
- Self-ligating braces
- Lingual 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 needs of the patient. In addition, every smile responds differently to orthodontic treatment as well.
Do braces hurt?
Braces do not often hurt though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple of 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?
With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn't able to reach. Your orthodontist will show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth once your braces are placed.
If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
Yes, In fact, it's very important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Will my braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?
Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your braces.
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Simply call our practice, Our staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need.
