If you have never been to see the orthodontist before, then you may be unsure what sort of things you may need to know before going in. Even if you have been with you before, you may feel as though you did not ask the right questions before deciding if you should move forward with braces or not. At Hudson Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves to be able to live with a healthy and beautiful smile that you can feel proud of, and for this reason we are happy to help you learn which questions you should be asking your orthodontist! Read along with this handy guide to discover the top 10 questions to ask at your next orthodontic appointment!
1 - What Are My Options?
There are several different styles of braces and aligners. Depending on your unique needs, your orthodontist will let you know what options are available to you. Examples may range from Invisalign, traditional metal braces, lingual braces, or Damon Braces. Ask your orthodontist to explain the pros and cons as well as differences between each type as well as estimated costs. We also suggest asking what they personally recommend and why. You shouldn’t necessarily just follow their recommendation, but do take it very seriously as you’re considering your options. No one knows you, your budget, and your needs better than yourself. You can also always consider getting a second opinion.
2- How Long Will I Need Braces?
Generally speaking, braces are worn for anywhere between 6 to 18 months, but several factors can affect the amount of time that they’ll need to be worn. It’s really difficult to give a specific answer from the start, as braces are a process, but your orthodontist will be able to give you a rough estimate on time.
3 - What Are My Limitations??
You will still be able to play sports and continue with your life as you do regularly, but there may be a few limitations. The most notable change you will notice are the limitations on foods that you can eat, however, it’s very easy to adjust into a braces friendly diet. Simply ask your orthodontist what foods you should avoid while wearing braces and they’ll be happy to answer, as it’s a fairly common question.
4 - Will My Brushing Habits Need To Change?
While it is more difficult to keep teeth clean while braces are installed, the right way to brush, floss, etc., will vary based on the type of braces. Be sure to get clear instructions from your orthodontist. Of course, greater dental hygiene will always be an added benefit to your life, but with braces it is even more important to be sure to keep up with good oral hygiene practices.
5 - Will Headgear Be Required?
Headgear is actually very rare these days, so if you’re concerned about this, understand that it’s not very likely to happen. In the event that you do need headgear though, be sure to ask your dentist how many hours it needs to be worn per day. Also, ask at what point in the treatment the headgear will need to begin being worn and when the treatment will end. As previously stated, it’s very rare these days, and most treatment plans do not actually require headgear. If headgear is something you’re uncomfortable with, make sure that you’ve considered all of your options, including those that don’t require headgear.
6 - Will Treatment Change My Facial Profile?
If you have a severe bite problem, then your facial profile may be altered during treatment. Your orthodontist should be clear about how it will change. It can be jarring for someone to feel that their face has changed shape, but in the end it will result in healthier teeth, a better bite, an improved smile, and easier teeth cleaning for life.
7 - How Will Braces Affect My Bite?
While most people think of braces as a way to improve one’s smile, that’s not all that braces can do these days. They can also improve a person’s bite. Be sure to ask your orthodontist to explain exactly how it will affect your bite and how it will change cleaning needs after the bite is corrected.
8 - What Happens If The Dental Appliance Breaks?
Loose brackets or wires are not uncommon during orthodontic treatment. If this should happen, you should contact your doctor’s office as soon as possible so that you can schedule an appointment to get your appliance back into proper working order as quickly as possible. Your orthodontist will give you instructions on what to do about a bothersome wire until it can be fixed, as well as what to do in case of an orthodontic emergency.
9 - Will A Retainer Be Necessary When The Braces Are Removed?
Your orthodontic treatment plan is not over just because your braces are removed. Most treatment plans require wearing a retainer once the dental braces come off. This is because teeth need to settle into their new positions and are most susceptible to moving out of alignment right after the braces are taken off. Retention visits will be scheduled in order for your orthodontist to make sure your teeth stay in place in proper function positions. These visits will eventually be spread out over longer periods of time but, until then, you should continue with follow-up visits and treatment to maintain the alignment you invested so much time in.
10 - How Much Will It Cost?
Cost is always an essential factor to consider. If you have dental insurance, you will have to be sure that your orthodontist accepts your particular provider. However, cost isn’t the only factor to consider, but remember that there will be costs beyond installing the braces. Make sure you can afford all follow-up treatment before moving forward.
Contact Us Today!
While getting braces can often be a daunting task for some, it can also be very exciting for others. It is important to keep these questions in mind for your first visit, but also come in with a sense of optimism! If you have any further questions regarding your first orthodontic visit, we encourage you to contact us with anything you might want to know! Hudson Orthodontics of Muscle Shoals, AL is always happy to help with any further questions you might have!