Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should my child first be seen by an orthodontist?
A: The answer to this question should be: as soon as the child,
parent or general dentist show any concern regarding the esthetics
and function of the teeth or growth and development of the child.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child be
first evaluated by an Orthodontist by age 7. This allows the
orthodontist to monitor dental development and skeletal growth.
Proper eruption sequence, space analysis, profile and smile
characteristics are noted. Most often no treatment is indicated. It
is comforting to know that everything is OK.
Q: Can I wear clear braces?
A: Yes! The ceramic braces available today are fantastic. There is
no discoloration of the braces and the transparent nature of the
appliance allows your natural tooth shade to show through. Tin grin
and metal mouth are out! Although normally an issue for adult
patients, the enhanced esthetics of the ceramic braces can be
enjoyed by children as well.
Q: Can't I just get a retainer?
A: Retainers do just that - they retain! Specialized retainers may
be partially effective for some minor tooth movements. A small space
can be closed or a slight overlapping tooth may be repositioned.
Removable appliances are typically less effective since they are
removable!! There is no action if 100% wear is not followed. Let us
take a look. If there is a chance a retainer could work for you it
will be noted and discussed.
Q: Can I wear colors on my braces?
A: Sure! The colors you may have seen are actually a small rubber
ring that goes around the brace to hold the wire to the bracket.
These rings are a necessary component of the brace system. They are
changed at each visit and therefore new colors can be chosen each
time! Match the holiday, your favorite sports team or just make a
fashion statement!
Q: How important is it to clean my teeth when I have my braces?
A: In fixed orthodontic appliance treatment the brackets are more
difficult to clean. It is therefore very important to care for your
braces by careful brushing and eating a sensible diet.
Q: When is it too late to wear braces? Am I too old?
A: It is truly never too late. If you've still got teeth, we can
straighten them! Certainly there are age-related changes that affect
the way treatment proceeds. Restorative needs, periodontal concerns
and others necessitate a full diagnosis and discussion of your
needs. Don't wait! Enjoy the benefits of a healthy, pleasing smile
for the rest of your life!
Q: What foods should I avoid during treatment?
A: In order for us to help you achieve your goal of a better smile
faster, we need your help and cooperation in avoiding types of foods
that could loosen or break your appliances or braces. Anything
sticky, chewy, gooey, or hard, please stay away from! Examples of
these foods are:
• Bubble gum
• Caramel
• Taffy
• Hard nuts
• Chewing on ice, pens, pencils, or anything hard!
Q: How do I page my resident to let him or her know I am here?
A: After signing in at the Orthodontic front desk, use the red phone
to page your resident by following the directions above the phone.
