FAQs
You have questions about your or your child's orthodontic treatment options? We have answers! See frequently asked questions below.
Braces
The best way to find out if you or your child needs braces is through an orthodontic evaluation. Common signs include crowded or overlapping teeth, gaps, difficulty chewing or biting or a jaw that shifts or makes noise. We recommend a first evaluation by age 7 for children, but braces can be effective at any age.
Braces are not painful to have placed, but you may experience mild soreness and pressures for a few days after placement and each adjustment. This is a normal sign that your teeth are moving. Most patients find this soreness manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods.
Braces treatment length varies depending on the complexity of your case. Mild alignment issues may be corrected in 12 months, and more complex bite and spacing issues could take 18-24 month or longer. We will give you a clear estimate after your initial exam.
Yes, adults can get braces! There’s no age limit for orthodontic treatment and a growing number of our patients are adults. We offer several discreet options well-suited to adult lifestyles that we’re happy to discuss during your appointment.
If you experience a braces bracket break, please call our office as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges. Avoid trying to fix or remove anything yourself.
Yes, you can opt into using colored bands on your braces. Our patients enjoy selecting different colors, showcasing their personalities. We offer several options that we can place during your ongoing braces adjustment appointments.
As you adjust to your braces, you may notice a change in your speech in the first few days, such as a slight lisp. This is temporary and typically resolves within a week as you get used to your braces.
Retainers hold your teeth in their new positions after braces are removed. Teeth have a natural tendency to shift back, so retainer wear is a long-term commitment. Most patients wear retainers full-time for the first few months, then nightly indefinitely.
The cost of braces depends on the type of appliance, the length of treatment and the complexity of your case. We work with most insurance providers and will work with you because we believe everyone should have access to the orthodontics care they need.