If you're considering straightening your smile, you might have many questions on your mind, so we're here to hopefully answer all of them!
Orthodontists do three years of additional training after dental school to specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. They use devices like braces or aligners to straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and improve overall dental health. They are trained experts in their selected field. Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). Dr. Dyer is an active member of the AAO.
Orthodontic treatment is important for several reasons. It properly aligns your teeth, improves your bite, makes cleaning and hygiene easier, and reduces the risk of dental problems like gum disease and cavities.
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies based on your specific needs. On average, braces or aligners take about 18 to 24 months, though some cases may be shorter or longer. During your first consultation, Dr. Dyer will give you a personalized treatment plan and timeline.
The cost of orthodontic treatment varies for each patient and depends on factors like the severity of the issue, the complexity of the treatment, and how long it takes. At your initial consultation, Dr. Dyer and his team provide a clear explanation of the costs involved and discuss our many flexible financing options to make your treatment as manageable as possible.
Orthodontic problems can arise from many factors, such as genetics, thumb sucking during childhood, losing baby teeth too early, accidents, and dental diseases. These issues can impact tooth alignment and jaw development, making orthodontic treatment necessary.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic checkup when they turn seven. Early evaluation can detect potential issues and allow for timely treatment. However, it's never too late to seek orthodontic treatment – teens and adults can benefit greatly too!
Teeth can shift after orthodontic treatment because the mouth naturally changes over time. Some small changes are normal as your teeth settle in with regular biting and chewing. However, more significant shifts can happen due to genetics or late growth spurts, which are harder to predict. Changes in the tooth position are a lifelong and naturally occurring phenomenon.
Regular use of retainers helps keep your teeth in their new positions. Dr. Dyer will tell you how often to wear them to prevent shifting.
If your teeth have moved since having braces, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Dyer. He can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment, such as clear aligners or braces, to realign your teeth.
- Always brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
- Use fluoride toothpaste and ask your dentist if you need a fluoride rinse to prevent cavities.
- If you remove your retainer to eat, brush and floss your teeth before putting it back.
- Keep the retainer in its container to avoid losing or breaking it.
- Keep your retainer clean by brushing it gently with toothpaste. You can also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed.
- Avoid soaking your retainers in boiling water or dishwashers.
- Try to avoid sugary foods, as they increase bacteria and plaque.
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods, hard foods, and foods that can get stuck in your braces.
- Schedule routine checkups with your family dentist.
Not necessarily. Research suggests that wisdom teeth, or third molars, don't always cause teeth to shift. In most cases, wisdom teeth are removed for general dental health reasons rather than for orthodontic health. Dr. Dyer will monitor their development and may recommend their removal if they pose a risk to your orthodontic results or your oral health.
Usually, you'll wear them full-time for the first few months, then you’ll switch to wearing them only at night. After that, it’s “Nighttimes for life” as Dr. Dyer would say, or as long as you want your teeth to stay put.
Dr. Dyer will give you specific instructions to ensure your teeth stay perfectly aligned.
If you still have questions or can't find the information you need here, please contact our office, and our team will assist you.
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