Orthodontics 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. Your orthodontist specializes in straightening teeth, correcting misaligned jaw structure and can improve the quality of 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 twenty-one. Whether you’re 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!
- If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken
- 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).
- 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, 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 three to 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 different types of braces to choose from, including:
- Clear braces
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces
- Invisible braces
- Traditional metal 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 patient, because every
smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and
thirty months, but most standard treatments take about twenty-four months.
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
cannot reach. Dr. V 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 three to 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 that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your
dentist should 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 mouth guard to protect your braces or
appliance.
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Simply call our practice at 321.425.5050! Our front desk 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 the information you need.
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