FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ORTHODONTICS

WHAT IS ORTHODONTICS?
Orthodontics (also known as dentofacial orthopaedics) is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the
detection, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
WHAT IS AN ORTHODONTIST?
An orthodontist is a dental professional with additional training and experience of two to three years.
Straightening teeth, correcting incorrect jaw structure, and improving the function of your smile are all
things that your orthodontist can help you with.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE AN ORTHODONTIST?
If you want to enhance the appearance and comfort of your smile, any age is a good time to visit an
orthodontist. Children should see an orthodontist around the age of seven, according to the American
Association of Orthodontists; nonetheless, orthodontic treatment is not limited to kids and adolescents,
and about 1 out of 5 orthodontic patients being beyond the age of 21. Any time is an excellent time to visit
the orthodontist if you're contemplating treatment for yourself or your child.
HOW DO I CARE FOR MY TEETH IF I HAVE BRACES OR A RETAINER ON THEM?
Here are some steps with how you can take care of your teeth if you have braces or retainers on:

 Always clean your teeth after each meal and floss at least once every day.
 If you remove your retainer before eating, ensure to clean your teeth, floss, and store it safely in its
case so it does not become misplaced or broken.
 Brush your retainers lightly with a toothbrush and toothpaste to maintain cleanliness as well. You
can also soak it in a denture cleanser if your orthodontist recommends it. Do not put your retainer
in the dishwasher or in boiling hot water.
 Use fluoride-containing toothpaste, and consult your orthodontist if you require a fluoride rinse.
This will aid in the prevention of cavities!
 During your treatment, prefer to avoid foods that include a high amount of sugar, as this can
increase the number of bacteria in your mouth, which will lead to increased plaque and possibly
cavities.
 Avoid foods that are sticky or chewy (caramel, gum, gummy bears), hard (tough candy, nuts, ice
cubes), or could become stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).
 Make an appointment with your orthodontist for your regular checkups. It is suggested that you
see the orthodontist every six months.
WHAT ARE BRACES?
Your orthodontist will use braces to help you develop the appearance and feel of your smile. There are
various types of braces to select from, such as:

 Ceramic braces
 Lingual braces
 Clear braces
 Self-ligating braces
 Invisible braces
 Traditional metal braces
HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WEAR BRACES IF I GET THEM?
Since every person reacts to treatment individually, the length of time spent in braces will vary from patient
to patient. Treatment periods range from six to thirty months, however, most typical treatments last
around 22 months.
DO BRACES PAIN?
Braces are rarely painful, though you may experience some discomfort for a few days as your teeth, gums,
cheekbones, and mouth adjust to your fresh braces.
IF I HAVE BRACES, DO I NEED TO BRUSH MY TEETH MORE OFTEN?
Brush your teeth at least 3 times a day while wearing braces to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth clean and
healthy. Cleaning your teeth on a regular basis will assist remove any food that has become stuck between
your braces. You must floss every day to get in between your braces where your toothbrush can't. Once your
braces are in place, your orthodontist may instruct you how to brush and floss correctly.
DO I NEED DENTAL CHECKUPS EVERY SIX MONTHS IF I WEAR BRACES?
Yes! In fact, people undergoing orthodontic treatment should see their orthodontist on a frequent basis.
Food can become caught in places that your brush can't reach with braces. Bacteria develop up as a result,
which can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your orthodontist will work to keep your teeth
clean and healthy while you wear braces.
WILL MY BRACES AFFECT SCHOOL ACTIVITIES SUCH AS SPORTS, INSTRUMENT PLAYING, OR
SINGING?
When you initially acquire the braces, playing an instrument or engaging in a contact sport may need
some adjustment, but braces will not prevent you from engaging in any of your school activities. If you
participate in a contact sport, you should wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.
HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR MY NEXT VISIT?
Simply contact us at our dental office in Miami, FL! Our front desk personnel will gladly assist you in
scheduling your next appointment with our orthodontist in Miami, FL.