Popular Questions About Braces
If your dentist has recommended braces to you or your child, you probably have some questions. Don’t worry…the team at Chorak Orthodontics has the answers you need. Here are 5 of the most frequently asked questions that we hear every day.
1. Does Getting Braces Hurt? There is no reason to be anxious about getting braces. All the appliances and wires used at Chorak Orthodontics are cutting-edge and exert light, continuous, forces that greatly decrease any soreness associated with orthodontic treatment. While each person will have a different experience with braces, generally, getting braces does not hurt. Braces do not hurt at all when they are applied to the teeth. However, you may experience mild soreness after the orthodontic wire is engaged into the newly placed brackets. It generally takes 12-24 hours to start feeling some discomfort (if any). If you do happen to feel any discomfort…an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Advil or Motrin can be used to greatly ease the discomfort.
2. How long do I have to wear my braces? From gaps to overbites, to teeth or jaw alignment issues there are many factors that can affect the amount of time you will need to wear your braces. While overall treatment time varies greatly from patient to patient, after an initial orthodontic evaluation and consultation, Dr. Chorak can help you better understand the amount of time that may be required for your unique case.
3. Why can’t I get Invisalign? While Invisalign can effectively straighten your teeth and correct your bite, there are some complex orthodontic problems that can only be corrected with traditional metal braces. Therefore, Dr. Chorak may recommend traditional braces instead of Invisalign. We realize that being told that Invisalign isn’t the right choice for you can be very disappointing, but it is our job to give you the best treatment possible so you can have a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
4. Are braces expensive? Orthodontic treatment is an excellent investment in the overall dental and psychological well-being of children, teens, and adults. But there is no denying that braces can be costly. Because orthodontic treatment is highly personalized and based on the individual the patient, it is impossible to know exactly how much your braces will cost without an initial orthodontic examination. The cost for your orthodontic treatment will depend on the severity of your problem, your insurance plan, and the type of braces you wear.
5. What happens after my braces are removed? Once your teeth and bite are in proper alignment, Dr. Chorak will remove your braces and provide you with retainers. To maintain your beautifully straight smile, you are going to need to wear your retainers as prescribed by Dr. Chorak. Typically, we recommend that you wear your retainers full time, except for mealtimes and cleanings, for about 4 to 6 months after your braces are removed and then nightly for the rest of your life.
With the answers to these questions, you should have all the information you need to make the right choice for yourself or your child. If you have further questions about orthodontics or if you want to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Chorak, please contact our Fairwood or Mercer Island orthodontic office today.
