Q&A with Dentist Ask A Question
What is the right age to get braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 The appropriate age for braces varies from person to person. While many people get braces during their teenage years, it's not uncommon for adults to undergo orthodontic treatment as well. For children, we usually recommend an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 to assess any issues that may require early intervention. Age is rarely a limiting factor; the key is the condition of your teeth and oral health. |
Are braces worth the investment?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 In my professional opinion, the benefits of orthodontic treatment far outweigh the costs. Not only do braces improve your appearance, but they also contribute to better oral health by making it easier to clean your teeth and by improving your bite. The boost in self-confidence and the functional benefits often make the investment in braces a life-changing decision. |
Can I choose the color of my braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Yes, with traditional metal braces, you can choose colored bands for a personalized look. Many of our younger patients at Royal Dental Whittier enjoy this aspect of their treatment. For those looking for a more discreet option, we also offer clear or tooth-colored ceramic braces. |
Can I go for regular dental cleanings while wearing braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Absolutely, regular dental cleanings are essential while you're undergoing orthodontic treatment. In fact, it's even more critical to maintain excellent oral hygiene to prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. We'll coordinate with your regular dentist or offer in-house cleanings to ensure your oral health is maintained throughout your treatment. |
Will I experience mouth sores from braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Some people may experience minor mouth sores or irritation when they first get braces. This is usually temporary and can be managed with orthodontic wax and over-the-counter treatments. If the problem persists, we're here to help you with effective remedies to ease your discomfort. |
What are the alternatives to metal braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 These days, you have several alternatives to traditional metal braces. Ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners like Invisalign are popular choices. Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons, so during your consultation at Royal Dental Whittier, we'll discuss these to help you make an informed decision. |
Can I get braces if I have gum disease?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Treating gum disease is a priority before starting orthodontic treatment. Poor gum health can complicate the braces process and lead to undesirable outcomes. If you have signs of gum disease, we'll work on treating that first. Once your gums are healthy, we can proceed with orthodontic treatment. |
What are self-ligating braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Self-ligating braces use a specialized clip instead of bands to hold the wire in place. This can reduce friction and make it easier for teeth to move. Many patients find them to be more comfortable and easier to clean. During your consultation at Royal Dental Whittier, we can discuss whether self-ligating braces are a good fit for your situation. |
Do I need to extract teeth for braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Tooth extraction is sometimes necessary to make room for teeth to move into their correct positions, but it's not always required. Advances in orthodontics have made it possible to treat many cases without extraction. We'll thoroughly assess your case and discuss the treatment options with you, including whether tooth extraction is necessary for optimal results. |
Can I get braces just on my top or bottom teeth?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 It is possible to get braces on just the top or bottom teeth, known as single-arch orthodontic treatment. However, this is only recommended in certain cases where issues are isolated to one arch and don't affect your overall bite. A comprehensive evaluation at Royal Dental Whittier will help determine if this is a suitable option for you. |
