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Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a
beautiful and healthy smile. Twenty to twenty five percent of
orthodontic patients today are adults.

How does orthodontic treatment work?
Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their
proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the
archwire that connects them are the main components. When the
archwire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original
shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their
new, more ideal positions.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is
from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate
of growth and severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length
is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral
hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping
treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?
The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt.
Once your braces are placed and connected with the archwires you
may feel some soreness of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips
and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on
your teeth.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?
No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by
wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity.
Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of
colors and patterns.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In
addition, brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?
Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months
for cleanings and dental checkups.

Will braces stain my teeth?
The cause of stains when you are wearing braces is improper brushing
and flossing. Leaving plaque or food around the braces causes this
avoidable problem. The bacteria in plaque secrete an acid which
begins scarring the teeth if it is not cleaned away.

Is an electric toothbrush or a Waterpik® good to use to
clean my braces?
Both are excellent when used properly to clean the plaque and food
away from your teeth, gums, and braces.