Active Treatment Questions

We want to answer all your questions. Find the most common questions regarding orthodontic treatment below or on our MPowered Talk (coming soon). If you have any additional questions not addressed below or would like to have a more in-depth conversation, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you. 

How often do I need to come for orthodontic appointments? 

During the active orthodontic treatment, you visits will be scheduled between 4 and 8 weeks, depending on the stage of your treatment. 

Do I need to visit my dentist during orthodontic treatment? 

It is vital that you continue to visit your family dentist once every six months for teeth cleanings and routine dental checkups, even during your orthodontic treatment. If extra dental care is needed, we will be happy to coordinate with your family dentist to make sure you receive the best possible care.

Will braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument or singing? 

Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth, braces, and appliance.

What if my child has loose baby teeth while in braces?

This is normal. We will simply remove the bracket from the loose baby tooth and let it come out on its own when it is ready.

How often do I need to brush and floss with braces? 

When you have braces, it’s crucial to brush after every meal and floss at least once a day in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment. If you need help choosing the right toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss, please ask us; we are here to help you choose the right products.

What foods do I need to avoid while in braces? 

There are several foods you will have to avoid while in braces to make sure you do not break your appliance. Mostly, food that is sticky and/or hard can cause issues. But don’t stress about it, there are tons of foods that are braces-friendly and that you may enjoy during your treatment. We will discuss these with you when you get your braces on. 

Will braces hurt? 

When you get your braces, you may notice that your teeth and mouth feel a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal, and we promise your mouth will not be sore forever! This usually last for a few days up to a week after your braces are on.  

It is also not uncommon for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become used to the braces. We are happy to give you some wax you can put over them to lessen the tenderness.