Orthodontic FAQ & About Orthodontic Care
For most people, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is the reason for receiving orthodontic care. If you’re self-conscious about your smile, correcting your concerns with braces will greatly improve the way you look and feel. When your treatment is complete, you will have the smile you’ve always dreamed of and the confidence to show it off! We also want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire orthodontic experience, and our practice is dedicated to making sure that you receive the quality care you deserve. Below, you’ll find our orthodontic FAQs, designed to answer the most common questions patients have about braces, treatment timelines, and orthodontic care.
Why Orthodontic Care Matters
Orthodontic treatment helps more than just the look of your smile. Properly aligned teeth can:
- 5Improve chewing and speaking
- 5Reduce uneven tooth wear
- 5Support healthier gums
- 5Make brushing and flossing easier
- 5Improve overall confidence
Orthodontic care supports both long-term oral health and everyday comfort.
Orthodontic FAQ
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontic treatment helps guide teeth into proper alignment and correct bite issues, improving both function and appearance.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed additional years of education beyond dental school. This training focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws and creating balanced, healthy smiles.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or bonded directly to the teeth. By applying a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth into proper positions.
Gone are the days of bulky metal bands around every tooth. Today, patients can choose clear or metal brackets, and in some cases, even select the color of their appliance. Modern wires are less noticeable and designed for faster, more comfortable treatment.
Today, any age is a great age to wear braces.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Treatment time varies based on age, treatment method, and how minor or severe the orthodontic concern is. One of the biggest factors in treatment success is patient involvement. Following instructions and keeping appointments helps treatment move more efficiently.
For children, early or interceptive orthodontic treatment can reduce overall treatment time. Before beginning care, Dr. Hodges will discuss your options and provide an estimated treatment timeline.
What Age Is Best to See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early evaluations allow orthodontists to identify concerns while the jaw is still developing. However, orthodontic treatment is effective for teens and adults as well.
Do Braces Hurt?
Some discomfort is normal when braces are first placed or adjusted. This soreness is usually mild and temporary, lasting only a few days as the mouth adapts.
Do Clear Aligners Hurt Less Than Braces?
Both braces and clear aligners may cause temporary soreness as teeth shift. The discomfort is generally short-lived and manageable.
Can Adults Get Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes. Orthodontic treatment is not limited by age. Many adults choose braces or clear aligners to improve their smile, bite function, and overall oral health.
Can I Get Braces if I Have Missing Teeth?
Yes. Orthodontic treatment can correct spacing and alignment issues even if teeth are missing and can help prepare the mouth for future restorative treatments such as dental implants or bridges.
How Do I Care for My Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment?
Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic care. Patients should:
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Brush after every meal
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Floss daily
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Use fluoride toothpaste and rinses as recommended
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Avoid sticky, hard, or sugary foods
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Continue regular dental checkups
Will Braces Interfere With Sports or Activities?
Braces typically do not interfere with daily activities, sports, or musical instruments. For contact sports, wearing a protective mouthguard is recommended.
How Do I Care for My Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment?
Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic care. Patients should:
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Brush after every meal
-
Floss daily
-
Use fluoride toothpaste and rinses as recommended
-
Avoid sticky, hard, or sugary foods
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Continue regular dental checkups
What Happens After Braces Come Off?
After treatment is complete, patients wear a retainer to help maintain their new smile. Retainers prevent teeth from shifting back and are an essential part of long-term orthodontic success.
Have More Questions?
Our team is happy to answer your questions and help you take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
Contact our office today to schedule your orthodontic consultation.