Is your child or teen in need of braces? This is quite common. In fact, between a quarter and half of all people require orthodontic care. If it turns out that your child is one of them, you probably have some questions. Here are the top 10 questions and answers about braces.
1. Q: How Much Do Braces Cost?
A: The cost depends on a variety of factors from the type of braces you get to the price set by your orthodontist, which is usually based on cost of living in your area. You can expect to be quoted a price somewhere in the range of $3,000-$7,000 for traditional braces. It may also depend on how long you will need to wear braces, as some orthodontists will set the price in order to effectively compensate themselves and their staff for their time.
2. Q: How Do Braces Work?
A: Traditional braces shift your teeth into proper alignment using a series of metal brackets and wires. Adjustments are made to the wires to gradually move the teeth where they need to be. Rubber bands are sometimes used to help align the patient’s bite pattern.
3. Q: Does Invisalign Work As Well as Braces?
A: For some patients Invisalign is a worthwhile alternative to braces. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to gently shift the teeth into place. The aligners are removable, which can pose a problem for children and young teens who may not be responsible enough to keep track of their aligners and wear them enough for them to be effective. They also cost more than traditional metal braces. Your orthodontist can help you determine whether or not your child is an ideal candidate for Invisalign.
4. Q: Are Braces Painful?
A: Any pain associated with braces is mild and easily remedied with over-the-counter pain medication.
5. Q: How Often Do You Need to See Your Orthodontist While Wearing Braces?
A: The time frame between appointments ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. But on average appointments are monthly.
6. Q: How Long Do You Need to Wear Braces?
A: The average time in braces ranges from 1 to 3 years. It may be shorter or longer depending on the individual and their specific orthodontic needs.
7. Q: How Long Do You Need to Wear Braces?
A: Putting braces on your teeth can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. You’ll have opportunities for periodic breaks so you won’t be in the chair constantly.
8. Q: What Kind of Special Care Do Braces Require?
A: You’ll only need to brush and floss your teeth as you do now, but be more careful around the brackets and wires to keep from damaging them.
9. Q: What’s the Ideal Age to Get Braces?
The only requirement for braces is that you have all of your permanent teeth in place. This can happen as early as 7 years old. But it is more common to get them between the ages of 10 and 14.
10. Q: Do You Need to Wear Retainers After Getting Braces Off and For How Long?
You will need to wear retainers to keep your teeth from shifting back out of alignment. You’ll need to wear them all the time for the first few months, then only at night for longer. Some orthodontists recommend wearing your retainers at night for the rest of your life.
Orthodontic Services at Tender Smiles 4 Kids
If you still have additional questions or you’re ready to pursue braces for your child, Tender Smiles 4 Kids offers dental and orthodontic services in one location. Options include traditional braces as well as clear braces, and Invisalign.
Contact us at any of our 4 offices:
- Freehold: 732-625-8080
- North Brunswick: 732-249-1010
- Edison: 732-549-3773
- Roselle: 908-245-5556