Orthodontic FAQ's

Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is a specialty field of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities. It primarily involves the diagnosis and correction of malpositioned teeth and jaws.

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

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of 7, however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens. One in every five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. So whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

Braces are used by your orthodontist to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several types of braces available to suit your needs, taste and personality.

These include:

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

The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient since every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere from six to 36 months. However, most standard treatments last about 24 months.

• 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 your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth and floss. Remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.
• Keep your retainer clean by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaener as instructed by your orthodontist. However, 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 increase the amount of bacteria that grow in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities.
• Avoid sticky, chewy and hard foods, such as caramel, chewing gum, hard candy, nuts and ice cubes, that could possibly get stuck in your braces.
• Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist.

Braces do not often hurt though you may feel some discomfort for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks and mouth adjust to your new 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 can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.

Yes. In fact, it’s even more 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 that 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.

Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustments in your activity level when you first get your braces. Ordinarily though, you will be able to participate in your regular school and or extracurricular activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.