Ten Questions To Ask Your Orthodontist

With the help of orthodontic treatment, any malocclusion and imperfections in the bite caused by uneven positioning of the teeth can be treated. Orthodontic options such as tooth-colored braces, Invisalign, etc., can easily restore the appearance and boost your confidence with a strong and healthy-looking smile. While starting out your orthodontic treatment, you would have to meet an orthodontist to determine the dental care that you need. The orthodontist will determine the best treatment for you by finding the right solution for your problem. The problems could be overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, misplaced midline, the gap between teeth or crowded teeth. 

You can ask specific essential questions to your orthodontist, such as the following:

 1. How can Invisalign help straighten my teeth?

Invisalign is a plastic aligner designed by an orthodontist for your teeth to move them to their desired position. 

 2. What type of braces should I choose?

Many types of treatment can help you to correct your smile. After conducting an initial exam and evaluation, the orthodontist chooses an effective way to achieve the desired outcome.

 3. Why shouldn’t I choose “Six-Month Smiles” or “Fast braces”? 

Six-month smiles or fast braces are currently marketed as the number one product that can help provide faster results by safely moving teeth in just six months with the help of a triangular-shaped dental brace. But six-month smiles and fast braces focus on the “social six,” i.e., the six teeth you see when you smile. This treatment neglect some of the primary issues of orthodontics. 

4. How long should I wear braces?

Generally, by depending on the severity of the case, orthodontic treatment might take about 12 to 24 months. After the orthodontic consultation, the orthodontist will be able to provide you with a close estimate for your case.

5. How many orthodontic appointments do I need while in treatment?

You might likely have an orthodontic appointment every 6-10 weeks. But this depends on the type of braces you wear. You might need special appointments if one of your brackets break accidentally.

6. Is there any need for extraction?

Some cases need extractions to make space for the teeth to move them into their desired positions. The orthodontist would be able to advise on that after carefully evaluating your teeth and bite.

7.  How about oral hygiene while in treatment?

The orthodontist will give instructions or tips to keep your teeth and gums clean even while undergoing the treatment. 

 8. Can someone with braces get involved with sports?

You can play all your favorite sports, but you need to protect your teeth, tongue, gums, and cheeks from a fall or contact by wearing a specialized mouthguard.

9. Do braces hurt?

With the advancement in technology, the braces are designed to be much more effective and comfortable. They are meant to provide minimal discomfort while undergoing orthodontic treatment. During the following check-ups or right after getting your braces placed on your teeth, you might feel some discomfort. With the help of over-the-counter pain relievers, you will get relief.

10. Should I wear a retainer?

In almost every case, it is recommended to wear a retainer following the treatment. The retainer helps in ensuring that your teeth don’t shift to back in position after being straightened.

To find the best orthodontic treatment, request an appointment with Dr. Le at Fairfield Orthodontics. Call our office at (707) 428-3200 or request an appointment online.