If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, or your dentist has referred you to us, you may have a few questions. We’ve answered some of the most common ones we get asked here, but if you have any more, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Do braces hurt?
No, braces don’t hurt, but throughout your treatment duration there will be times when you experience slight discomfort. This is usually after your adjustment visits (see below) when your braces are tightened or your aligners are replaced. This discomfort only lasts a day or two and can be easily treated with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does treatment take?
Treatment time varies between patients as every case is different. Some patients need extensive orthodontic work, while others only need minor adjustments. This means treatment can take anywhere between six months to two-and-a-half years. The length of your treatment will be outlined in your treatment plan.
How much does treatment cost?
Just like treatment time varies, so too does treatment cost. How much your treatment costs depends on factors such as: whether one or both arches of your teeth need treatment; how severe the problem is; the type of braces chosen; and whether there are alternatives to braces. You will be given a detailed quotation at your consultation visit. At Taree Orthodontics we offer 18-24-month interest free payment plans to help make treatment more affordable.
How often do I need to have my braces adjusted?
Once your braces have been fitted you will need to come back to the clinic every three-to-eight weeks to have your appliance adjusted. Dr Rex and Dr Ballard use the latest generation of wire technology in the practice. This means fewer adjustments and greater comfort, while achieving superior results in the same or lesser time frame. At Taree Orthodontics we also use SureSmile, which is an innovative alternative to traditional brackets that has been proven to accelerate treatment time.
Will I need to have teeth removed?
In some cases, teeth may need to be removed, particularly if they are crowded and fighting for space. Fortunately, modern orthodontic techniques have reduced the need to remove teeth and, if treated at the correct age, may only need to be removed in 10 to 15 per cent of cases.
Will I still be able to talk when I have braces?
Yes, standard braces should not affect how you talk or the sound of your voice. In certain cases, we may need to use an appliance that could get in the way of your tongue. If so, you may experience slight trouble talking clearly for a day or two. However, your tongue will then readjust and you will be able to speak normally.
Are all braces designed to be as pain free as possible?
At Taree Orthodontics we use the very latest orthodontic techniques and treatments to reduce your discomfort, whilst achieving the very best results. Our team works with each patient to achieve comfort during the course of treatment.
Will braces cause mouth ulcers?
When you first get braces, you could experience some mouth ulcers. If you rinse with warm salty water, they will heal within a week or two. We provide orthodontic wax to our patients when they have their braces fitted as this helps protect the inside of your cheeks from rubbing against the brackets (it’s this rubbing that can cause ulcers to form). Your gums and cheeks will become accustomed to the braces and after a while you shouldn’t need to use wax anymore.
Does it hurt to eat with braces?
After your appliance has been fitted, and again after each adjustment visit, your teeth will feel a little tender and you may wish to eat softer foods. After this you should be able to eat normally again, though it’s important to avoid certain foods, such as hard sticky toffees, which can damage your braces.
What happens if a bracket falls off?
We will simply re-attach it. Usually this isn’t a problem; however, if this does occur please make an consultation with us as soon as possible.
Do you offer Invisalign treatment?
Yes we do and Dr Ballard has Red diamond provider status in recognition of his experience using this virtually invisible treatment method. We offer all types of Invisalign, including Invisalign Comprehensive, and Invisalign’s fast treatment options, Invisalign Lite and Invisalign Express.
Invisalign aligners are a registered medical device, you should always read and follow the label and the instructions of your treating orthodontist.
I don’t want to wear braces; what are my options?
At Taree Orthodontics, we offer a range of orthodontic treatment options. These include invisible techniques, such as Invisalign aligners, as well as lingual braces which are fitted to the back surface of your teeth. At your free consultation, we’ll recommend the treatment we believe you could most benefit from. This may or may not be braces, but if it is, don’t worry, because the days of having to wear ‘train tracks’ are a thing of the past.
Got a question?
If you’ve got a question about orthodontics we haven’t answered here, please contact us. The team are happy to answer any queries you may have.
