Frequently Asked Orthodontic Questions – Webster, MA

Below, we’ve included a handful of the most common questions we hear as well as our answers for your convenience. The goal is to make sure all of our patients are informed on treatment and orthodontic care in general so they can feel confident about making the right decision.

When is the right time to bring my child in for an orthodontic exam?

Parents should bring their child in for an initial exam by the age of seven. At this point, most of their baby teeth should have fallen out, which gives us a chance to catch underlying problems and treat the incoming adult teeth accordingly. Keep in mind that this is the most effective time to do so as their jaw and bone tissue are still developing.

 

Do I need to wear a retainer after braces?

Children need to wear a retainer after braces come off so that teeth do not shift back into their previous position. When they first begin wearing the retainer, they need to wear them for at least 23 hours per day and only remove them for eating meals or practicing daily oral care.

What are my options for straightening teeth other than metal braces?

Yes! We have multiple options for you to consider, whether you’re an adult or teenager. Self-ligating braces, clear/ceramic braces and Invisalign all can be placed with transparent materials. We’ll also go over the differences in more detail during your next visit.

How should I finance my orthodontic care?

Simply Orthodontics Webster offers many options for financing treatments. The best option depends on whether you have dental insurance or Medicaid. Third-party financing is also available through CareCredit if you do not have any dental insurance. We work with many dental plans and are willing to file claims on your behalf as well.

Does it hurt to get braces?

Placing the braces themselves generally does not cause much discomfort at all. Once you’ve had them for a few days, you’ll likely experience some minor soreness and aches, but this is normal. You’ll experience soreness following each tightening treatment, assuming you get traditional braces, but again, this is brief. It helps to take over-the-counter medication to make it more manageable.

How long is the treatment process?

Depending on the treatment you choose, it can fall anywhere between six and 30 months. It also depends on how severe your orthodontic issues actually are. We will discuss your treatment length in more detail once you arrive.

Will I still need to visit my general dentist?

You should always be making regular visit to your dentist. We recommend visiting once every six months to have your mouth examined and cleaned. We work directly with your dentist so that your gums and teeth remain healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. To avoid complications to your care, it’s imperative to maintain positive oral health.