Do braces hurt?

Getting braces placed does not hurt at all, but a few hours after they are glued on, you will experience some discomfort that will last for a few days. Over the counter medications that you would take for a muscle ache, such as Tylenol, Advil or Motrin, will help the discomfort subside quickly. After your adjustment appointments, your braces will feel tight again, and you may want to take these medications for a day or two. Most patients find braces to be very painless and do not require any over the counter medications.

How long will I have to wear my braces?

The time frame for your treatment varies for everyone. Every patient’s teeth are different, therefore, so is their treatment plan. Time varies based on how much treatment you need, how well a patient complies, the age of the patient, and even the height of the patient can cause the treatment time to vary, but typically a full orthodontic treatment ranges from an average of 12-24 months.

How frequent are my appointments?

Appointments for adjustments are about 6-8 weeks apart.

How long do my appointments take?

Your first appointment to get your braces on takes about an hour and a half, but adjustment appointments are much shorter. They are about thirty minutes.

What age should a child start orthodontic treatment?

We recommend beginning orthodontic monitoring, but not necessarily treatment, at age seven usually.

Am I too old for braces?

No one is ever too old to have a beautiful smile that gives them confidence! We have treated patients in their 80′s.

Are braces just for cosmetic reasons?

Absolutely not! By aligning your teeth, you are able to clean in between your teeth better. Cleaner, healthier teeth limit problems like gum disease, which has been linked to heart disease. When your bite is misaligned, you can develop TMJ problems that result in recurring headaches, neck, shoulder, and upper back pain. The cosmetic benefits are really just the “bonus” to having braces.

Are there only metal braces?

No. We have several different types of braces that all work wonderfully to provide patients with great smiles, including the clear, ceramic Innovation C braces. They are much less conspicuous and do not show up in photographs.

Are there alternatives to having braces?

Yes! Invisalign is a great option for patients that are really concerned about the look of braces. The Invisalign treatment consists of clear aligning trays.

Will I have to have extractions or surgery?

With all the new advances in orthodontic treatment, extractions of permanent teeth and surgical procedures have been greatly reduced. Dr. Hirsh prides himself on developing individualized treatment plans for each patient that are as conservative and non-invasive as possible. Unfortunately, in some rare cases, extractions or surgery are the best option.

Will I need headgear?

Headgear is virtually extinct. There are several new techniques that do what headgear does, but much better and without the embarrassment of a strap that goes around the back of the head. In some young patients, headgear can be used during large growth spurts, but only at home, during the night, so it’s inconspicuous.

Do I need rubber bands?

Yes. Almost all patients will require at least a short period in rubber bands.

How do I floss?

The day you get your braces placed, a staff member will teach you how to brush and floss. Floss threaders help you to guide the floss under the wire, and we will give these to you. If you need a refresher on how to brush or floss, just ask a staff member at your next appointment, or check out these Brushing with Braces (link here???) and Flossing with Braces (link here???) videos.

Can I use my electric toothbrush with my braces?

Any type of toothbrush, manual or electric, can be used when in braces, just as long as you use the toothbrush frequently!

Can I get my teeth cleaned with braces on my teeth?

Yes, and you should continue to see your general dentist at the usual six month intervals.

Do braces cause you to get cavities?

No, but not brushing properly with braces does. Maintaining proper oral hygiene during treatment will prevent any unnecessary cavities.

Will I have stains on my teeth when my braces are taken off?

Braces do not cause stains on the teeth; however, decalcification, or white spots, on the teeth will be there if a patient has not maintained a proper oral hygiene regime during their treatment.

Do I have to restrict my diet with braces?

There are eating restrictions during braces treatment. Things such as corn on the cob, apples, nuts, hard rolls, gum, caramels, etc should be avoided. Anything that is really crunchy or chewey needs to be avoided, so that braces are not knocked off. Also, limit sugary, carbonated drinks during treatment, because bacteria in your mouth kicks into overdrive when they have these and will produce even more plaque.

Will I need a retainer after treatment?

Yes, unless you want to have braces again. See our Retainers section for more information.

What happens if I move during my treatment?

We will be sad to see you leave, but we will assist you in finding a competent Orthodontist in your area if you are to move out of town. Many patients transfer in and out during treatment, because of job requirements or other reasons, but it does not affect treatment.

Do I have to have insurance to get braces?

No. If you do have dental insurance with an orthodontic benefit, great, but most patients in treatment do not have insurance.

Are there payment plans?

Yes. We have interest FREE payment plans to make the financial aspect of treatment easier.