If you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, you probably have some questions. It can be difficult to sort through the information you want or need. We’ve put together a list of questions to ask your orthodontist about braces, so you can put all of your information in one place.
5 Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist About Braces
These questions about braces can help you compare different options and gather the information you need to make an informed decision about orthodontics. If it’s helpful for you, you might keep a list and write down answers as you talk with dentists and orthodontists.
1. What Results Can I Get From Braces?
The first, and perhaps most important question to ask your orthodontist about braces is whether or not braces will help you achieve the results you want. Braces can help straighten and realign teeth, but they might not be a successful solution for severe jaw misalignments, like overbites or underbites. Or, if your teeth are very crowded, you may need tooth removal so your teeth have enough space to align evenly. Severe tooth decay or an existing tooth infection also has to be treated before applying braces.
The best way to know what results you can expect from braces is to talk with your dentist or orthodontist. Each person’s teeth are unique, but your orthodontist can tell you more about results they’ve seen before and similar situations.
2. What Type of Braces Are Best For Me?
There are many different types of braces, and it can be difficult to know which ones are best for your teeth.
Invisalign is one option you might choose. These types of braces have become increasingly popular since they are clear, and not as easily noticeable as traditional braces. These types of braces use a series of clear aligners to gradually move teeth into the preferred position. At each appointment, your orthodontist will fit a new aligner to your teeth, and each one will gradually shift your teeth.
There are other types of braces as well, like Damon braces and ceramic braces. Damon braces use sliding brackets to shift teeth into place. Ceramic braces use ceramic material instead of metal. Then, of course, there are traditional braces, which is what you probably think of when you imagine braces. These types of braces use metal wires, brackets, and glue to shift teeth into place. These are more visible than some of the previously mentioned types of braces, but they are also generally more affordable.
3. How Much Will Braces Cost?
The cost of braces is probably on your mind. This is a great question to ask your orthodontist when you’re considering braces. Though your orthodontist won’t be able to give you an exact figure, they should be able to give you an estimate.
There are many different factors that can influence how much braces cost. Even factors like location and the overhead costs of the office can be an important factor in the costs of braces. The type of braces you choose, the results that you’re looking for, dental work required prior to starting braces, and other factors can influence the overall cost.
A payment plan can help you manage the costs of braces more easily. Dental insurance coverage or an FSA can also help you pay for braces. At BDG, we offer zero interest financing out of our offices for orthodontics. Try our braces payment calculator to estimate how much braces may cost for you, when paid for monthly.
4. How Many Appointments Will I Need?
Braces require readjustments every three to four weeks in order to straighten and move teeth. Different types of braces are adjusted in different ways, but they all need adjustments. Patients generally wear braces for around 18 to 20 months. It’s important to be able to work regular appointments into your schedule if you are getting braces, or your child is getting braces. This might mean taking time away from school or sports for your child, or taking time away from work, for adults. Ask your orthodontist to estimate how many appointments you or your child might need and how long each visit should take so you will be prepared.
5. What Does Aftercare Require?
It’s helpful to know what aftercare requires for braces, and what you can expect. There are certain foods you won’t be able to eat, like sticky foods and candy, or chewing gum. You’ll need to be especially careful about brushing and flossing your teeth properly, since bacteria can easily hide and multiply in the space between the brackets and wires of braces. You may also need a retainer to keep your teeth aligned in the future.
Asking the right questions when you’re getting braces will help you get the information you need to make the best choice for you or your family. If you live in the Las Vegas area and you’re interested in braces, schedule an appointment with a professional at BDG today.
