Are There Any Alternatives To Braces?
If you don’t want to have traditional metal braces, you may be able to resolve your alignment issues by wearing clear aligners instead. Clear aligners are not as noticeable or intrusive as braces. However, clear aligners cannot be used to resolve all types of alignment issues. Our team will help you compare your options for orthodontic treatment so you can make an informed decision.
What’s The Best Age To Get Braces?
The ideal age for braces is between 10 and 14. However, this does not mean that older patients cannot benefit from braces too. In fact, our office uses braces to treat adults on a regular basis. Our team can help you decide whether braces are the right option for you at any age.
How Long Do People Have To Wear Braces?
The amount of time you will need to wear your braces depends on the condition of your teeth, your progress, and other factors. In general, most patients will need to wear their braces for one to two years in order to get the desired results.
Are Braces Really Necessary?
In many cases, braces will be optional. If you have minor to moderate issues with alignment, you should not experience serious health problems if you care for your teeth properly. However, patients often choose to have braces anyway to improve the appearance of their smile, as well as to make preventative dental care easier.
Do Braces Do Anything Other Than Improving My Smile?
Braces offer benefits aside from the improvement in the appearance of your smile. For example, after braces, the improved alignment will make your teeth easier to brush and floss. You may also experience fewer cavities, less periodontal disease, and reduced grinding of your teeth.
Do Braces Hurt?
The process of having braces applied to your teeth is not typically painful. However, shortly after the braces are in place, you may experience some soreness and tenderness as your teeth begin to move. This same soreness may return each time your braces are adjusted. Soreness from the application or adjustment of braces is temporary and can typically be treated with over-the-counter medications.
Some patients may also experience discomfort when wires or other components of braces irritate the inside of the mouth. Charlotte dentists will provide you with wax to help you prevent this irritation.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
The cost of braces will vary based on different factors, including the exact treatment plan and the length of time you need to wear braces. Our office will provide you with a detailed estimate of your anticipated expenses before you begin the process. Some expenses may be covered by dental insurance, which will reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Am I Too Old For Braces?
Although braces are usually recommended to patients in adolescence, they can be used to improve alignment issues in older patients as well. In fact, a significant portion of our patients who wear braces is adults. If you are interested in braces, please call us to schedule a consultation and we will be happy to help you decide if braces are an appropriate treatment option for your needs.
How Long Will I Have To Wear Braces?
Every patient is unique. However, in general, most patients will need to wear their braces for one to two years, depending on their progress. Before we begin the treatment process, we will discuss how long you should expect to wear your braces.
Do I Need To See My General Dentist While Wearing Braces?
Your teeth are still vulnerable to decay and other issues while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. While wearing braces, you should still visit your general dentist for check-ups and cleanings once every six months. These appointments should be made in addition to appointments with your orthodontist for adjustments of your braces.
What Is Limited Treatment?
Some patients are interested in resolving only some of their orthodontic issues, rather than undergoing comprehensive treatment. For example, you may want to resolve only those issues that are most visible when you smile, while leaving other issues untreated. We will be happy to discuss the possibility of limited treatment and how it will change your outcome.
