FAQ's
In a nutshell, it’s a treatment to straighten your teeth and align how your teeth meet when you bite, resulting in an amazing smile and pain-free jaws and facial muscles. There are different levels of treatment that would be determined and discussed during your consultation. Levels are: Limited, Phase 1 to Full Comprehensive treatment.
Absolutely!! Orthodontics will provide a beautiful smile. You’ll also have healthier teeth, gums, and mouth as straight teeth are much easier to keep clean! Let’s not forget heightened self-confidence and comfort!
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends between the ages 7-8. For this age range we do require a referral from your child’s pediatric dentist.
A referral is always nice to have but is not required. However, Dr. Clark does require that you have had a dental cleaning within the last year prior to scheduling a consultation.
Getting braces/Invisalign isn’t painful, however you may experience discomfort for several days as your teeth, gums, and cheeks begin to adjust to treatment. At your appointment, we will give you excellent tips to help you feel more comfortable.
Depending on your specific needs, the ortho technique, and compliance (staying away from foods that may break the braces or not wearing your Invisalign trays), the duration will vary. Average treatment time can be from 18-24 months.
Food choice is most significantly affected when wearing traditional braces. Avoid gum, hard food, sticky food/candies, apples, carrots, chips, corn on the cob, and hard shells of bread and other similar foods. When you choose Invisalign®, there are no diet restrictions since the clear aligners are removable for eating and home care.
Oral care with braces will need to be top notch! Brush after all meals and snacks and floss 1-2 times a day. Food particles and plaque will collect on brackets easily. If you’re ever stuck and can’t brush, be sure to rinse with water after eating and brush as soon as possible. We highly recommend that dental cleanings continue while in treatment.
We do encourage our patients to wear a mouthguard for all sports where there is even the smallest risk of contact. We do provide mouthguards specifically for braces, so please let us know if you will need one!
Call us! If braces become loose, if they break, or if you’re in unusual discomfort or pain, call us. If it’s the weekend or after hours, call us (850) 385-2822 and the recording will inform you how to contact the assistant on call. We’re always here for you!
Absolutely 100%! Retainers are for lifetime! After completion of treatment, you will wear your retainers full time for two months and then at night only (while sleeping) for lifetime.
