Frequently Asked Questions

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. However, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around the age of 7.

Our orthodontic office offers a wide range of appliances, including expanders, Herbst appliances and retainers. Along with traditional metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners such as Invisalign^®.

Yes, you can still participate in sports and play musical instruments while wearing braces. We recommend using a mouthguard for contact sports, and we can provide guidance on protecting your braces during musical performances.

The frequency of orthodontic visits for adjustments can vary, but typically patients are seen every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments and to monitor progress.

In case of an orthodontic emergency, such as a broken bracket or wire, contact our office immediately. We will guide how to handle the situation and schedule an appointment to resolve the issue promptly. If it causes any irritation to the cheeks and lips, place orthodontic wax over it to prevent it from poking your soft tissues.

If a piece of your braces comes loose or falls off, contact our office as soon as possible. We may advise you to temporarily remove the loose piece or provide instructions on how to secure it until you can visit us.

It is common to experience some discomfort or soreness after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers and warm salt water rinses can help alleviate the discomfort. We may also provide orthodontic wax to minimize irritation from brackets or wires if needed.

If you lose or misplace your aligners, please contact our office promptly. We will assess the situation and determine the appropriate steps to ensure the continuity of your treatment.

Yes, orthodontic treatment is still possible if you have dental restorations or missing teeth. We will assess your case and develop a customized treatment plan to address your needs and goals.

If it is determined that you are not yet ready for orthodontic treatment during your initial evaluation, we will establish a personalized monitoring schedule. This allows us to track your dental development and determine the ideal time to begin treatment. We will regularly evaluate your progress and recommend treatment when it is most beneficial for you.

Yes, we understand that emergencies can happen, and we strive to accommodate orthodontic emergencies as quickly as possible. If you have an urgent issue, such as severe pain, injury, or a broken appliance, please contact our office right away. We will make every effort to schedule an emergency appointment to address your needs promptly.

If you miss an orthodontic appointment, please contact our office as soon as possible to reschedule. Consistency in attending appointments is important for the progress of your treatment. We will work with you to find the next available appointment that fits your schedule.

It is common to experience a temporary adjustment period when speaking with orthodontic appliances. However, with time, your tongue and lips will adapt, and your speech will improve. Practicing speaking and reading aloud can help accelerate the adjustment process.

After completing your orthodontic treatment, we will remove your braces or aligners and evaluate the final results. At this stage, we will discuss the need for retainers, follow-up appointments, and post-treatment care to ensure your smile remains stable and beautiful for years to come.