How do braces move my teeth?

Braces move your teeth through a combination of gentle pressure and time. The brackets and wires apply continuous pressure to your teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position. The bone remodels around your teeth through resorption and adding new bone, allowing for a new, straighter alignment.

How long will I need to wear braces?

The duration of braces treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case. Most teen patients need comprehensive braces treatment for 12 to 24 months. Limited treatment often only takes 4-12 months. During your initial consultation, Dr. Joseph Phillips will provide a specific timeline based on your orthodontic needs.

How much do braces cost, and will insurance cover them?

The cost of braces will vary depending on the type of braces you choose, the complexity of the work,  and the length of your treatment. At Phillips Family Orthodontics, we offer flexible payment plans to fit different budgets. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of braces, especially for children and teens. After your consultation, we will give you a detailed cost breakdown, and our experienced team will help you navigate your insurance to deliver the maximum benefit. 

What are the different types of braces available?

We offer several types of braces to meet your unique needs, including:

• Metal Braces are traditional and highly effective for many orthodontic issues.
• Ceramic Braces are less noticeable than metal braces and blend in with your teeth.
• Invisalign and Clear Aligners are a series of clear, removable aligners that are nearly invisible.

Dr. Phillips will recommend the best treatment type for you during your consultation.

Are braces painful?

It’s normal to experience discomfort when you first get braces and after adjustments. This discomfort is usually mild and temporary, lasting only a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers, gum, and cold foods can help manage soreness.

What foods can I eat with braces?

While you can enjoy many of your favorite foods with braces, avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your braces is vital. Patients should avoid foods like popcorn, caramel, and hard candies. We’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of foods to avoid and tips on eating comfortably with braces.

How often will I need to come in for adjustments?

Patients with braces typically visit our office every 4 to 10 weeks for adjustments. During these appointments, Dr. Phillips will adjust your braces, replace elastic ties, and make necessary changes to ensure your treatment progresses efficiently.

Will I need to wear a retainer after the removal of braces?

Yes, wearing a retainer after removing your braces is essential to maintaining your new smile. Retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions and prevent them from shifting back. With our unique process, after completing treatment, you need only wear retainers for two weeks, both day and night, before wearing the retainers at night only after that.

How do I properly care for my braces?

Proper care is crucial to ensure your treatment goes smoothly. Here are some tips:

• Brush after every meal: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean around the brackets and wires.
• Floss daily: Special floss threaders can help you clean between your teeth and under the wires.
• Avoid certain foods: As mentioned earlier, avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage your braces.
• Attend regular check-ups: Keep all scheduled appointments to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments.

What happens if a bracket or wire breaks?

If a bracket or wire breaks, it is not an emergency. You should contact our office for support as soon as possible. We’ll schedule a repair appointment to fix the issue and keep your treatment on track. In the meantime, you can use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges and prevent irritation.

What can I do to reduce discomfort after getting braces?

To ease discomfort after getting braces or after an adjustment, you can:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater 3-5 times daily to soothe sore gums.
• Apply orthodontic wax to any areas where the braces are irritating.

Can I play sports or musical instruments with braces?

Yes, you can still enjoy sports and play musical instruments with braces. For sports, we recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth from injury. Custom mouthguards are available for a better fit. Playing musical instruments may require a brief adjustment, but most patients can continue playing without issues.

How soon will I start to see results with braces?

You will start to notice changes in your smile within a few months of starting treatment, but the most significant changes usually occur toward the end. Dr. Phillips will monitor your progress during each visit and adjust as needed to ensure optimal results.

Can I whiten my teeth while wearing braces?

We recommend whitening the teeth after you complete the braces treatment. Whitening treatments can cause uneven results if done while braces are still on. Once your braces are off, we can give you the best options for whitening your teeth to enhance your new smile.