What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment involves wearing braces (removable and/or fixed). It may involve the extraction of teeth and, very occasionally, jaw surgery.
How often will I need an orthodontist appointment?
Once your brace has been fitted, you will need regular orthodontics appointments for it to be adjusted. Usually the time between appointments varies from 4 to 6 weeks.
Will orthodontic treatment damage my teeth?
It is important that you brush your teeth well for at least 3 minutes, twice a day. Use a fluoride toothpaste. To further protect the teeth, use an alcohol-free fluoride mouth rinse daily at a different time to when you brush your teeth. Avoid eating or rinsing for 20 minutes after using it.
How long does my child need to wear braces?
The length of treatment varies. It depends on the problem, how well your child cooperates, and your child’s growth. Typically, most people wear braces from 18 to 36 months.
Is it painful?
Having the brace fitted is not painful. However, it is common to have slightly sore teeth for 3 – 5 days after first fitting the brace and after each adjustment appointment.
Will I still need to see my regular dentist?
Yes. It will be important for you to continue to have check-ups with your regular dentist throughout orthodontic treatment so that your teeth can be checked for problems.
What if my brace breaks during treatment?
Contact your orthodontist for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible. Repeated breakages will slow down the treatment and increase the overall treatment time. You may have to pay for replacement braces and, if further breakages occur, then treatment might have to stop.
What happens at the end of treatment?
Your teeth might move back towards their original positions. In order to prevent this, you will be fitted with retainers. Your orthodontic doctor will advise you on how long and how often you will need to wear them.
