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. |
How often do I need to get the wires tightened?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 The frequency of wire tightening depends on your individual treatment plan. On average, patients usually need to get the wires tightened every 4 to 6 weeks. These appointments are crucial for monitoring progress and making the necessary adjustments. Failure to adhere to these appointments could potentially extend the duration of your treatment. |
Can I get braces if I have missing teeth?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Yes, you can still get braces if you have missing teeth. In fact, braces can help align the remaining teeth in preparation for future dental restorations like implants or bridges. The goal is to create a balanced bite and optimal spacing for the prosthetic teeth. As always, we'll conduct a thorough evaluation of your case to tailor the most effective treatment plan for you. |
Will braces affect my speech?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 While it's possible to experience slight difficulty in speech initially, most patients adapt within a few days. Issues with speech are generally more noticeable with aligners or lingual braces. Practice makes perfect; reading out loud or speaking more can hasten the adaptation process. If you continue to experience speech difficulties, please consult us at Royal Dental Whittier. |
Can I play sports with braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Yes, you can still participate in sports while undergoing orthodontic treatment. However, I strongly recommend using a mouth guard to protect both your teeth and the braces. This can prevent injury and damage to the braces. If you're involved in contact sports, this is especially crucial. We can help you find the right mouthguard that accommodates your braces. |
How much do braces cost?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 The cost of braces varies depending on the type of braces you choose and the complexity of your case. At Royal Dental Whittier, we provide detailed cost estimates and offer various payment and financing options. Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, and we can help you navigate your insurance benefits. |
Will I need to wear a retainer after braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Yes, wearing a retainer after your braces are removed is crucial for maintaining the new position of your teeth. Failure to wear your retainer as prescribed could result in a relapse, which might necessitate additional orthodontic treatment. We provide custom-made retainers and a detailed follow-up plan to ensure the long-term success of your treatment. |
Are braces only for cosmetic reasons?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 While braces do improve the appearance of your smile, they also have significant functional benefits. Correcting misaligned teeth can improve your bite, make it easier to clean your teeth, and reduce the risk of oral health issues in the future. Orthodontic treatment is often a balance between aesthetics and function, and we aim to achieve both at Royal Dental Whittier. |
How do I clean my teeth with braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Oral hygiene is especially important when you have braces. You'll need to brush after every meal and floss daily, using special interdental brushes or floss threaders to navigate around the wires and brackets. We'll give you a demonstration and offer tips on effective cleaning during your treatment period at Royal Dental Whittier. |
What are the different types of braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 There are several types of braces available today, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners like Invisalign. Each has its own set of advantages and limitations. At Royal Dental Whittier, we offer a comprehensive consultation to discuss your options and help you choose the treatment that best fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget. |
How often will I need check-ups?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 Regular check-ups are crucial for ensuring that your treatment is progressing as planned. Typically, you would need to come in for adjustments every 4 to 6 weeks. These appointments allow us to tighten the wires, replace bands, and make any necessary modifications to your treatment plan. Consistent visits and following our guidance can often result in a shorter overall treatment time. |
Can I eat normally with braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 You'll need to make some adjustments to your eating habits while wearing braces. It's advised to avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that could dislodge or damage the braces. We will provide you with a comprehensive list of foods to avoid and tips for eating comfortably with braces during your treatment at Royal Dental Whittier. |
Will braces hurt?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 While the placement of braces doesn't hurt, you might feel some discomfort or soreness for a few days after the braces are adjusted. This is normal and is generally manageable with over-the-counter pain relief or by applying a cold compress. Our priority at Royal Dental Whittier is to ensure your comfort throughout the treatment, and we are always here to offer tips and remedies to minimize discomfort. |
How long will I need to wear braces?Dentist answersposted on Aug 28th, 2023 The duration of orthodontic treatment with braces varies significantly depending on the complexity of the case. On average, most people wear braces for about 18 to 24 months. However, some cases may require a shorter or longer period. At Royal Dental Whittier, we conduct a thorough evaluation and give you an individualized treatment plan that includes an estimated timeline. |
Is it possible to close the space between my front teeth without braces?Dentist answers |
If I have braces, do I still need dental check-ups every six months?Dentist answers |
How do Invisalign braces work?Dentist answers |
What happens after my braces are removed?Dentist answers |
