Today, at least half of all American children wear braces at some point during childhood or adolescence, and children aren’t the only ones scheduling consultations for braces. Today, millions of adults in the U.S. are wearing braces as well.
If you’re wondering if you need braces or how you’ll benefit from them, preparing a list of questions to ask your orthodontist and scheduling a braces consultation is the best thing you can do. Your orthodontist can explain the benefits, tell you what to expect, and let you know about all the treatment options to address your dental health needs.
Here, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions, but make sure you discuss these with your orthodontic team as well to get an in-depth answer that focuses on your specific needs.
1. What Are The Benefits Of Braces?
Your Las Vegas cosmetic dentist may recommend braces to eliminate gaps and straighten crooked teeth, improving your appearance. You may also head to a Las Vegas orthodontist for braces to correct malocclusions and prevent the following oral health concerns:
- Bone erosion
- Digestive issues
- Gingivitis
- Oral hygiene
- Speech impediments
- Tooth decay
2. How Long Will I Have To Wear Braces?
Minor adjustments may take approximately one year, but some must wear braces for up to two years. This is a great question to ask during your initial consultation because your orthodontist can examine your teeth and estimate the treatment time based on your needs.
3. Will Getting Braces Hurt?
It’s natural to experience slight discomfort when you get your braces. However, discomfort usually fades as you adjust to them. You can ask your orthodontist about what to expect when consulting with them.
4. How Will Braces Affect My Appearance?
Your braces will affect your appearance during and after treatment.
During Treatment
Metal braces are noticeable, but you can use clear ceramic braces or invisible braces to straighten and move teeth without drawing unwanted attention. When you choose invisible braces, you won’t have to worry about feeling self-conscious about your smile.
After Treatment
Braces will transform your smile by eliminating unsightly gaps and straightening your teeth. After your braces treatment, enjoy a smile that shines with aligned teeth.
5. Can Everyone Wear Invisible Braces?
The type of braces you’ll need may depend on your teeth and the adjustments needed. Invisalign is an option for some, but those with severe alignment issues may need ceramic or metal braces.
6. What Must I Do To Care For My Oral Health When Wearing Braces?
Wearing braces can make oral health care trickier. Regularly brush and floss and pay close attention because you could have food trapped in your braces. Plan to spend extra time flossing to avoid damaging your braces and ensure you remove all food particles.
Schedule regular dental cleanings to keep your teeth clean and prevent plaque buildup or cavities. It’s also essential to use alcohol-free mouthwash, which helps prevent plaque buildup and gingivitis.
7. What Can I Eat With Braces?
You can enjoy softer foods while wearing braces. Great menu options include the following:
- Applesauce
- Bananas
- Bread
- Chicken (shredded)
- Eggs
- Fish
- Ice cream
- Mashed potatoes
- Oatmeal
- Pasta
- Pudding
- Rice
- Smoothies
- Soft fruit
- Soup
- Steamed vegetables
- Yogurt
Avoid hard or sticky foods, such as the following:
- Bagels
- Chips
- Corn on the cob
- Hard candy
- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Pretzels
- Raw vegetables
8. Can You Have Braces With Dental Implants?
Dental implants are replacement teeth surgically attached to your jaw and can’t be moved. Therefore, discussing how they impact your options is essential when considering braces. Your orthodontist can use braces to move neighboring teeth while keeping your implant in place.
A beautiful smile and the confidence that comes with it is priceless. It’s also very affordable with our limited time promo, braces as low as $89/mo!
9. Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces?
Dental insurance typically covers part of the cost of braces for children, and some plans may even cover part of the cost of braces for adults. Before starting treatment, check with your insurance provider to determine what they cover. After that, be sure to ask about our financing options to help cover the remaining costs.
10. What Activities Will I Have To Give Up While Wearing Braces?
You should be able to enjoy most routine activities without issue while wearing braces. However, you may find your braces make it challenging to play brass or woodwind instruments.
How Absolute Dental Can Help
Are you trying to find a Las Vegas orthodontist to talk to about braces? Absolute Dental’s dental expert team can answer your questions. Our special offers and financial options make it possible to access expert dental care at affordable prices. We accept coverage from most dental insurers and have a Smile Saver plan for those without dental coverage.
Schedule your orthodontic consultation and get answers to your questions about braces today.
Sources:
Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces? (2024).
Khan, S. et al. (2018). Why Cavemen Needed No Braces.
Sadick, B. (2022). Getting the Straight Facts on Braces for Adults.