FAQ

• How will braces help me?

  Braces work by creating gentle force in the desired direction. This force causes compression on the periodontal ligament (PDL) on one side while stretching it on the other side. On the side where there is compression, the bone is reabsorbed and on the other side, there is bone growth. Thus, teeth movement takes place due to bone creation and bone loss on different sides. Thus, the results are permanent.

• Is there is an age for getting braces?

  There is no age for getting braces. They can be effective in teenagers and adults. When it comes to kids, 10 to 14 is considered the best age group for getting braces because their mouth is still growing and permanent teeth are coming. It is recommended that every child should see an orthodontist for an assessment when they are 7 or 8. However, many of our patients are above 21.  Braces can align your bite and increase your confidence. Your oral health benefits significantly when your teeth are straightened.

• How to know if I need braces?

  This depends on the structure of your teeth and mouth and what you desire from your smile. If you have concerns about any of these factors, you should schedule an appointment with our dentist. Once we examine your oral health and discuss your condition and options, we will be able to recommend whether braces can help you with your goals. The goals can include cosmetic reasons, straightening the teeth, and correcting the bite.

• Do braces cause hurt?

  Braces will not generally hurt. Some patients are likely to experience minor discomfort for a couple of days because their teeth, gums, and mouth have to get used to them. You may feel a little sensitive after wearing them the first time, but it goes away after they settle in. You shouldn’t feel pain when wearing braces. In a very rare case, if you experience any pain, you should call us.

• How long will I have to wear my braces?

  Your orthodontic problem determines your treatment time and this determines how long you will have to wear your braces. The severity of your problem and the type of braces used also affect the duration. Usually, patients wear them from 12 to 30 months. When it comes to children, the duration varies based on the problem and the child’s oral growth. Interestingly, good oral hygiene, follow-up appointments, avoiding certain foods, and using auxiliaries also affect the time.

• How often should I brush my teeth after wearing braces?

  Those with braces are recommended to brush their teeth at least 3 times a day. You should brush every time you have had food. It is important to remove any food that gets caught between the braces. It is also recommended to floss daily to reach areas where your brush cannot. Once we place your braces, we will guide you on how to brush and floss effectively.

• Will braces interfere with my activities?

  Braces do require a little time to adjust when you first wear them on. Once they have settled in and you get used to them, they will not interfere with your activities. You can even continue with your singing practice without any interference. Whether you like to play instruments or engage in contact sports, you can continue with them after the initial adjustment.  It is recommended to put on a mouthguard when you play some contact sport.

• Will I need dental checkups after wearing my braces?

  Braces are a type of orthodontic treatment. It will be required to visit your dentist regularly after you put them on. Even when you brush and floss as per recommendations, food can get caught in areas where brushing and flossing cannot reach. Part of the regular checkup is to clean such areas to prevent bacterial build-up that can otherwise cause cavities, gum disease, and gingivitis. Appointments are usually held 4 to 8 weeks apart to check progress and adjust the braces.

• Are there any eating limitations with braces?

  When you wear braces, you should stick to taking soft foods. Avoid taking big pieces of food and cut them into small pieces. It is important that you know the types of foods that you must avoid. Avoid:

  • Hard foods
  • Crunchy foods
  • Chewy foods
  • Sticky foods
  • Sugary foods

  It is best to avoid foods that you have to bite into. Examples include apples, cob, and carrots. You can enjoy all your favorite foods after your braces are removed.

• What happens after my braces are taken off?

  The brackets and wires will be removed using special tools and the process will not hurt at all. We will remove any leftover polishes or adhesive on the teeth before you can view your beautiful new smile. You will be required to wear a retaining to help retain your teeth in their position. Only clear and comfortable retainers are used that are unnoticeable.