Orthodontic FAQs

About Orthodontics

For most people, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is the reason for receiving orthodontic care. If you’re self-conscious about your smile, correcting your concerns with braces will greatly improve the way you look and feel.

When your treatment is complete, you will have the smile you’ve always dreamed of and the confidence to show it off! We also want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire orthodontic experience, and our practice is dedicated to making sure you receive the quality care you deserve.

HOW ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT WORKS

Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to the proper position. Due to advancements in the field of orthodontics, wires are far less noticeable, and the latest materials are designed to move teeth faster with more comfort. Today, any age is a great age to wear braces!

WHAT’S THE BEST AGE TO VISIT THE ORTHODONTIST?

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great time to see us. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of 7. Most patients are ready for orthodontic treatment between the ages of 12 and 14.

Your general dentist will most likely discuss when a referral to the orthodontist is needed. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any age is a good time to visit Moffit Orthodontics.

DURATION OF TREATMENT

Treatment time varies depending on several factors, including age, treatment method, and how minor or severe your case is. A big factor in a successful treatment is you! The more involved and diligent you are, the more efficient your treatment will be.

HOW DO I TAKE CARE OF MY TEETH during my orthodontic treatment?

ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask Dr. Moffit or your family dentist whether you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.
During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, and can cause more plaque and potential cavities.
Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in or break your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).
If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.
When you take out your retainer/aligner to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and remember to keep the retainer safe in its container so it does not get lost or broken.
Keep your retainer/aligner clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by our office. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.

emergency CARE

True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but when they occur, we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call us when you experience severe pain or have a painful appliance problem you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.
Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment process, so be sure to take care of all your appliances and follow all instructions given by Dr. Moffit.