FAQs

What is the ideal age to start orthodontic treatment?

We recommend that children come in for an evaluation as soon as a problem is recognized, usually by age 7, as recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). Most children will not need to begin treatment that young, but many will benefit from early intervention. For these young patients, the orthodontist can help guide proper jaw alignment and eruption of permanent teeth. For most patients, the average age to start treatment will be around 12, when most permanent teeth have erupted.

What is the advantage of a two-phase treatment?

The first part of this two-phase treatment philosophy is all about establishing proper jaw function and guiding adult teeth into their correct places. The second phase involves perfecting the bite and esthetics of the smile once all adult teeth have erupted at around 12-13 years old. Not all children need a two-phase treatment. For some that do, this two step approach can lead to much more stable and cosmetic results, which may not be achievable had treatment been delayed.

What if I put off treatment?

Certain jaw discrepancies and severe eruption problems can become much more difficult to fix when older. The results of delayed treatment may be compromised or require extensive time and effort. Taking advantage of the early period of natural growth and development of children can help us achieve a much more stable and esthetic smile.

Do braces hurt?

Your teeth will be sore for a couple of days following adjustment visits. We recommend taking over-the-counter pain medication and staying on soft diet to help alleviate the discomfort. Cheeks and tongue may also feel tender in the beginning, but they will toughen up within days.
How often do I have to come in for my braces adjustments?

Most adjustment visits will be 4-6 weeks, with Invisalign treatment visits often being every 8 weeks. This will allow your orthodontist to monitor your progress and make necessary changes to steer the treatment in the right direction.
How long will my orthodontic treatment take?

Simple cases may take a few months, but many cases will take about 2 years to complete. We will give you a treatment length estimate when you come in for a consultation.

What can I eat while my braces are on?

You can still eat most foods with some exceptions. We recommend staying away from sticky, chewy, hard, and tough foods. Starburst, gummy bears, chewing on ice, biting into tough bagels can dislodge braces and wires. Once you begin treatment, we will educate and remind you how to take excellent care of your teeth.

How do I brush and floss with braces on?

Keeping your teeth and braces clean will take extra effort on your part, but no worries, we will help you every step of the way. We recommend using specific orthodontic products and flossers, as well as brushing with different techniques, all of which will become second nature once you get the hang of it.
Do I still go to the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings?

Keeping up with regular 6-month check-ups and cleanings with your dentist will be even more important with braces and appliances on, as you may be more prone to tooth decay and gum problems. Your Tooth Fairy dentist and orthodontist are in constant communication to ensure that your teeth are healthy. Our Tooth Fairy patients enjoy the convenience of having all doctors under one roof, as this interdisciplinary arrangement allows easy communication and treatment planning for the best treatment outcome.

What happens after my braces are taken off?

Once orthodontic treatment has been completed, you will be fitted with retainers to help keep the alignment of the teeth. Over time, you will wear the retainers less and less, but we (and AAO) recommend life-long retainer wear to prevent slight relapse that occurs over time. You worked hard for that beautiful smile. Your retainers will help keep it that way.