Orthodontic treatment can be a bit confusing and overwhelming at times, but we are here to help you better understand the treatment that will finally give you the smile of your dreams! Because there are many questions about braces, we have provided answers to the following frequently asked questions:
How long will I need to wear braces?
Your treatment time will depend on your specific smile situation. Treatment can generally last from 9 months to 5 years, but it’s more common to go through treatment for 18-24 months. If you would like to know how long it would take your smile to change, you are more than welcome to come into our office and ask Dr. Cha and/or Dr. Dinh for evaluation.
Can I look cool with braces?
Yes, you can most definitely look cool with braces. Many people see brackets and wires as the jewels of the smile! You can also decorate your appliance with colorful rubber bands, which is the best part of the treatment.
Do braces cause pain?
Braces don’t generally cause pain, but they do cause some soreness. As your appliance applies pressure to your teeth, your teeth will quickly shift and change, making your oral cavity sore. This is completely normal and can be fixed with over-the-counter pain medications. Many people also find that the brackets and wires irritate and cut the lips and cheeks. If you are experiencing this irritation, you can cover your brackets and wires with orthodontic wax.
Can I still play sports while I have braces?
You can most definitely play sports while you have braces. The appliance will not affect your game in any way. We do, however, strongly recommend that you wear a mouth guard while you play. The guard will protect your teeth and appliance from the hard, forceful objects that hit it.
What can I eat when I have braces?
As you proceed through your treatment, it is important to stay away from the foods that can harm your braces. These foods include caramel, taffy, gummy bears, popcorn, gum, and hard candies. We also recommend that you remain cautious while eating hard foods, like bagels, hamburgers, apples, pears, and corn on the cob. It’s best to cut these foods into small pieces before you eat them.
We know you most likely have additional questions about braces that aren’t addressed in this blog. So, if that is the case, we encourage you to call our office today and ask a member of our dental team. The more you know about braces, the more you will like them. So, call our office now and finally get the answers you have been searching for!