According to Wikipedia, braces, also known as orthodontic cases are devices used in orthodontics that align and straighten teeth and help position them with regard to a person’s bite, while also aiming to improve dental health.
Braces feels like a lifesaver to people that use them, and if you are thinking of joining these group of people, then there are some important question you need to ask your orthodontist.
It is very important you understand everything about braces before getting them; this will address all your concerns and clarify all uncertainties.
- How long will my treatment take or how long will I be I braces?
Many people don’t want to visit orthodontics because they just could not get the answer to this question. A lot of people believe orthodontic treatments take many years, making orthodontic treatment less appealing.
You have to understand that the duration of treatment depends on the type or severity of your dental case. So when you ask this question, your orthodontist will let you know how long the treatment will take. Your treatment may finish sooner than you think
- Can you provide detail of your educational background
Orthodontist are dentists who have returned to school to receive more training. It is like a master’s degree that requires up to three years of study. Asking him about his educational background will help you know if he is truly what he says he is or if he is just a fraud.
- Can you show me similar cases?
If you visit a certified orthodontist , odds are he has handled dental cases similar to yours. Ask to see a picture of some of those cases to create an imagination of what you should expect when your treatment is over. This will either make you want to back out or make you feel very excited about the treatment.
- How often will my appointments be?
How often you need to visit your orthodontist depends on the type of treatment you are receiving. You may need to visit your orthodontist once in two weeks or once a month. However, try not to miss your appointments, as it will help him/her monitor your progress.
- Do I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
There are some instances where you might need to have teeth extracted in order to make room for a new smile. It’s not common, but it is sometimes a necessary part of the process. Ask your orthodontist for an explanation for why your tooth will need to be extracted and whether or not there are less invasive options on the table.
- What should I do if my wire moves?
Sometimes you might experience a little pain or sensitivity or get something stuck in your braces or even get the wires bent. It can be a little nerve-wracking because you don’t always know how to handle these situations? Ask your orthodontist about an emergency visit to the dentist or ways you can handle the situation at home until your next appointment.
- Are there emergency appointments?
You most likely have a family. Nobody can afford to miss going to work. It’s a good idea to find an orthodontist who will be regularly available during the week and even after hours in case of any emergency.
- Do braces hurt?
Braces are a great way to achieve a straighter smile, but it is a long process and sometimes there can be little hiccups along the way. Your Orthodontist will guide you about the whole process & also provide you a list of food you can have while braces are on.
- Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
It’s not uncommon for teeth to come in crooked or misaligned. As the orthodontist affixes metal brackets to your teeth, the new grown teeth will grow straight. Ask your orthodontist about the after result of braces.
- Do I need to steer clear of some foods and drinks?
Asking your orthodontist about the best way to keep your teeth clean with braces is extremely important to maintaining your dental health during your orthodontic treatments. You’ll want to make sure to eat the right foods to keep your braces clean and functioning. Brushing your teeth and flossing every day is even more important with braces to make sure that you have a perfect smile once you get your brackets taken off.