Ortho FAQ

Orthodontics is the area of dentistry that focuses on preventing and treating crooked teeth, overbites/underbites and other dental and facial abnormalities.

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

It can be challenging to take care of your teeth during orthodontic treatment. 

Remember:

• Brush your teeth after every meal using a fluoride toothpaste
• Floss at least once a day
• Ask your orthodontist if you need a fluoride rinse to help prevent cavities
• Avoid sugary foods during your treatment
• Avoid sticky and chewy foods or foods that could get stuck in your braces. (for more information, visit our Braces 101 page)

If you have a retainer: 

• Take it out to eat, and remember to keep it 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 cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist.
• Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.

Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.

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

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

This varies depending upon the needs of each individual patient. Most standard treatments take about 22 months, but treatments can take anywhere from six to 30 months.

You may feel a bit of discomfort when you first get braces, but braces rarely hurt. If you are having pain, please speak to your orthodontist. We want your treatment to be as easy and comfortable as possible!

Yes! 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 between your braces where your brush isn’t able to reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to brush and floss properly 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 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 you’re wearing braces.

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 braces or appliance.

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to 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 the information you need.

We believe education is important.  We all work together as a team to provide the best possible treatment tailored to fit your needs. We encourage you to explore these websites for additional information on your condition or treatment.