Orthodontic FAQ
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized form of dentistry, focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
Who is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience in a university residency setting. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, modify jaw growth, and improve jaw function.
Why choose a specialist? Can't my family dentist do this for me?
Orthodontic treatment can make profound (and often permanent) changes in a person's facial appearance and jaw function, and should not be entered into casually. Even though Texas law allows any dentist to do orthodontics, a board certified specialist is uniquely qualified to render this treatment. His training and clinical experience far surpass anyone else in dentistry.
What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven. Active treatment isn't usually necessary at that age; however, your child can be screened for orthodontic problems, and occasionally interceptive treatment is indicated.
Orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21.
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, brush your teeth, or floss, remember to keep it safe in its container so it does not get lost or broken.
- Keep your retainer clean by brushing it gently with a toothbrush. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist. Do not put your retainer in boiling water, the dishwasher or microwave oven.
- During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque and possibly cavities).
- Especially avoid sodas. They are very acidic and contain loads of sugar....a bad combination for teeth.
- 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 you continue to visit the dentist every six months.
What are braces?
Braces can be bonded to the teeth or removable, and they are used to modify jaw growth and straighten teeth. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:
- Clear braces
- Ceramic braces
- Self-ligating braces
- Clear removable aligners
- High grade stainless/titanium braces
If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?
The amount of time spent in braces can vary depending on the individual patient, as everyone responds a little differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months; however, most standard treatments take about 18 to 24 months.
Do braces hurt?
There is some discomfort to deal with for a few days after braces are installed or adjusted. It is a soreness that you will notice most when you bite into solid food...it is not a severe pain that requires narcotic pain medicine. Generally, over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen are effective in reducing the soreness, and it goes away almost entirely after 3 to 4 days. Everyone is different, and some patients report little or no discomfort, while others are more sensitive and need ibuprofen or tylenol for a few days longer.
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. Our staff can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.
If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
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 and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with us to make sure 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 you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance. Please advise us if you need a mouthguard, and we will provide you with one.