Questions To Ask Your Orthodontist Before Getting Braces

If you are about to embark on the great journey of braces, then some questions must be racing in your mind.

Unlike other dental treatments whose results you can see almost immediately, and which you can finish in one or two visits tops, braces are a long journey (usually about a year) and you won’t see the results until you are almost finished.

It is understandable that you have questions and your orthodontist is more than happy to ease your mind. So what are the questions to ask your orthodontist before getting braces?

We’ll explore all you need to know in this blog.

What Does The Orthodontist Do Before You Get Your Braces?

As you probably know by now, getting braces is not a quick fix. Before you get braces, your orthodontist has to do a lot of scans and examinations to determine the best treatment plan for your case and give you a rough estimate of what you’ll have to do and how long the treatment will take. The initial diagnosis phase is probably the most important phase of all. Your orthodontist must have a clear plan of what to do and exactly when to do it before starting. This includes checking your teeth clinically, taking clinical photos, taking molds, and pouring out study casts, as well as X-rays to check the conditions of the bones.

How Many Visits Before You Get Braces?

It all depends on your case, but generally, you need about 3 visits before getting braces:

1. The first visit:

   Where you express your need to get braces. Your orthodontist will make an initial examination for all your teeth to determine if they need any treatment before you start your braces treatment, as well as check the general alignment of your teeth. This helps in determining how long – roughly – the treatment will take. She will also request a few X-rays and take a few clinical photos, as well as molds for the initial assessment. If you have any questions to ask your orthodontist before getting braces, you should do so on the first visit so you have a clear view of what’s to come.

2. The treatment visit:

   This visit usually includes treatment for all other problems other than braces. Cavities are filled, remaining roots are extracted, calculus and tartar are removed, and so on. This phase may take more than one visit according to the condition of your teeth and mouth.

3. Starting the treatment:

   By the 3^rd visit – give or take – your orthodontist has a clear plan of what to do and when to do it. She will start with the bonding and banding of the teeth, and place the first wire on your teeth.

Questions To Ask Your Orthodontist Before Getting Braces in Brooklyn

You probably have a list of questions to ask your orthodontist before getting braces, but in the unlikely event that you don’t, here are a few questions – and their answers – to ease your mind:

1. Are braces the best option for me?

   If you have a problem with your teeth arrangement such as spacing, crowding, overbite, or otherwise, then braces are probably the answer for you. However, there may be other options to explore. Closing the gaps with bonded restorations or veneers may be on the table, and removing one or more teeth may ease the crowding without the need for braces, so make sure you know your options.

2. What types of braces are there?

   There are many types of braces to choose from. You have your traditional metal braces that are preferred by most orthodontists. If you prefer a more esthetic option – adults usually do – then you can choose between clear braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign. Each type has its merits and drawbacks, so weigh your options carefully.

3. How long will my treatment take?

   Each case is different, and each has its estimated treatment period. Not even the best orthodontists can determine exactly how long a treatment will take, but most can give a rough estimate which is usually pretty accurate.

4. What should I expect after the first bonding visit?

   One of the most important questions to ask your orthodontist before getting braces. Most people don’t realize that there will be some discomfort after the first visit. The wire pulls on the teeth to move them, and you would start feeling that movement. You will feel as if your teeth are moving and under pressure. You will also feel a bit of scraping from the brackets on your gums and cheeks, so some cuts and bruises are normal. All these should subside within the first week or so after bonding.

5. Are there any foods to avoid?

   Also a pretty important question. There are some restrictions to the foods you can eat. Hard foods such as nuts, carrots, and apples are generally a big NO-NO since they can break the brackets off the teeth. Sticky foods such as gum and toffee are also inadvisable. These not only pull the brackets away from the teeth, but get stuck between the teeth and around the brackets, and are impossible to clean.

6. How much will my braces cost?

   Cost is an important aspect when it comes to braces. They are generally not covered by insurance and can end up taking a big chunk of your savings. But when you see the results, it will all be worth it. Generally speaking, braces can cost anywhere between $3000 and $15000 depending on what type of braces you select and how difficult your case is.

7. When can I expect to see results?

   With braces, it is difficult to visualize the results due to the long treatment time. In general, you would start to feel the difference within the first 2 to 3 months. You will definitely start to feel the difference after 6 months, and you’ll be amazed at the results once the treatment is finished. All you need to do is be patient and hope for the best.

We think that covers most of the questions to ask your orthodontist before starting braces. If you have any more questions in mind, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Sophia Scantlebury and her amazing team at Scantlebury orthodontics. You can reach us on (718) 962-0637 or visit us at 10 Plaza St. E., Suite 1H Brooklyn, NY 11238.