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We welcome all your questions—your needs and concerns guide our approach to personalized care.

FAQs about general
and emergency orthodontic care

Have a different question? Don’t hesitate to call us. We’re happy to answer all of your questions big and small.
Orthodontics is a dental specialty focused on correcting teeth and jaw alignment. Treatment can help improve your bite, straighten your teeth, and enhance your overall oral health and smile. It can also help prevent future dental issues, like wear and tear on teeth.
We recommended folks schedule a consultation for their children around age 7. Early intervention can help identify potential issues and guide growth, but it’s never too late to start treatment. Many people get amazing results starting orthodontic care as adults.

Traditional metal braces are the most common, but patients can also choose clear or ceramic braces or clear aligners, We’ll help you choose the best option for your needs and lifestyle.

Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your case, but most patients wear braces for about 18-24 months. Some treatments may be shorter, especially with clear aligners, while others may take a bit longer. We’ll give you a personalized timeline for all of your options.
You’ll feel discomfort after getting braces or adjustments, but it’s typically mild and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, and the sensation will subside after a few days. We’ll guide you on how to make the process as comfortable as possible.
Don’t worry! If a bracket or wire comes loose, try to gently push it back into place using a clean cotton swab, eraser end of a pencil, or your finger. Cover the poking wire with orthodontic wax and contact us to schedule a repair.
If you lose an aligner, let us know as soon as possible to avoid delaying progress. We’ll let you know whether to move to the next set or if we should provide a replacement.
It’s common to experience some irritation, especially right after adjustments. You can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges. Rinsing with warm saltwater can also soothe your gums and lips. If discomfort persists, let us know so we can advise you or adjust your braces for a better fit. Your mouth will get used to the braces and irritation will subside.
You’ll need to avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage your braces or get stuck in them, like caramel, hard or sticky candy, or bagels. Soft foods are your friend! It’s also a good idea to cut food into bite-sized pieces rather than biting directly into them. After eating, make sure to floss and brush your teeth thoroughly to keep your braces and mouth clean.
Consistency is key for achieving the best results. It’s important to wear your rubber bands or aligners as directed to stay on track and finish treatment on time.
Not at all. It’s normal to feel some tightness or discomfort after an adjustment because your braces are working to move your teeth into their proper positions. The sensation usually fades within a few days. If you’re concerned, though, we’re always here to help.
If your retainer breaks, contact us right away to get a replacement as soon as possible to prevent your teeth from shifting.

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