The ideal time for your child to start seeing an orthodontist is at age 7, when their permanent teeth start coming in. It’s ideal to put braces on between the ages of 10 and 14, when the head and mouth are still growing. However, you can get braces at any time, even as an adult.
The price can vary depending on what type of braces you get. Clear braces and Invisalign are typically more than metal braces. Your insurance will usually cover some (but not all) of the cost of braces.
Typically, no. We will take x-rays, impressions, and facial photographs. We will then use these to plan the appropriate treatment.
On average, it takes braces about a year and a half to two years to straighten your teeth. This time can be shorter or longer, depending on your unique situation. Your orthodontist can give you an estimated treatment time.
Braces are not painful. There will be some discomfort and soreness as your teeth start to move, but they aren’t “painful”. The first few weeks of having braces are usually the worst part, but your mouth will adjust to having braces.
Yes, it is recommended that you wear your retainer continuously for 12 months after having your braces removed. That is the time when your teeth are most susceptible to shifting out of place. After the initial 12 months, we recommend that you wear your retainer 3-5 nights per week for life.
Possibly. If your back teeth are positioned very close together, you will need to get spacers in order to create a small space for the bands that go around your back molars.
On average, you will have your braces tightened every 6-8 weeks.
Yes! People of all ages can benefit from having braces. There is no age limit.
There may be some discomfort from your teeth and jaw shifting. This is usually mild. The wires and brackets attached to your teeth can sometimes irritate the inside of your mouth, but putting wax (your orthodontist will give this to you) on the brackets can help.
You can sometimes see movement in as soon as 4-6 weeks. However, it varies from person to person.
Metal or ceramic braces typically align the teeth and close gaps faster than Invisalign.
There is no “best type”. Each has its own pro’s and con’s. It depends on the individual and their unique needs as to what type of braces are best for them.
It can. Although this is largely due to the fact that most people who use Invisalign have mild to moderate alignment needs. If you have big gaps or major alignment problems, traditional braces will probably work better for you.
Treatment with Invisalign will take about 12 months on average for most adults. The actual time will vary based on your orthodontic needs.
The average length of time between appointments is 6-8 weeks. This can vary, depending on your specific needs.
Absolutely! However, it is recommended that you wear an orthodontic mouth guard to prevent any damage or injuries.