Before treatment even begins, we often find that new patients have a lot of questions. This is good! It’s always wise to go into a new (and costly) endeavor with your eyes wide open so that there’s no confusion or surprises down the road. Pre-treatment consultations are pretty common in the medical fields, and orthodontists are no exception. It’s important that the patient have a full understanding of what they’re getting into and what they can expect from the process. Listed below, you’ll find some of the most frequently asked questions concerning braces and the treatment process.
How long will I have to wear braces?
This is very much dependent on the severity of the case. For most patients, you should expect to wear them for an average of 1–3 years. Of course, this timeline is prone to lengthen if the teeth are severely misaligned or there are setbacks during the treatment process.
Does it hurt?
When you first get your braces put on, you’ll likely experience some pain and discomfort in the teeth and gums. Patients also report a slightly less intense discomfort after the periodic adjustments that occur throughout the treatment process. But in any case, the soreness is only temporary and should last no more than a week at most.
Will it limit the activities I’m able to participate in?
Yes! Many of our patients are teenagers who engage in sports and play wind instruments. The good news is that after the initial adjustment period, students can continue their activities as normal.
Can I still eat whatever I want?
Unfortunately, no. To protect the wires and brackets on your teeth, orthodontists advise against eating anything hard, sticky, chewy, or gummy. It’s also recommended that you avoid biting into foods, like sandwiches or burgers.
How can I make the treatment as smooth as possible?
Follow your orthodontists instructions, especially when it comes to keeping your braces clean and avoiding problematic foods. Broken wires, broken brackets, and failure to wear your rubber bands could result in an extended treatment time.
How often are checkups?
Generally, patients should come in for a checkup every 6–8 weeks. Every orthodontist is a bit different, so be sure to follow your recommended treatment schedule.
Will I have to wear a retainer?
It is strongly recommended, yes. Retainers will help your teeth stay in place after the braces have been removed. Without a retainer, the teeth could move and shift back to their original places.
Questions? Contact Noble Orthodontics!
If your question wasn’t included on this list, reach out and schedule a consultation with Noble Orthodontics. We’d be happy to answer any questions or concerns that you may have on your mind. Get in touch with us today!
