Braces are pretty complicated, and people have lots of questions about them. Here are the top 10 that we’re usually asked. If you have a specific question you’d like answered, just email Dr. Martin with your question, and he’ll respond to you just as soon as he can.
When should orthodontic treatment start?
Can adults get braces?
Does getting braces hurt?
How much do braces cost?
Are braces covered by insurance?
How long do braces have to stay on?
Can I play sports with braces?
Can I eat normally with braces?
Can anyone get invisalign®?
What happens when braces come off?
Answers:
When should orthodontic treatment start?
Malocclusions (bite problems) usually become noticeable between the ages of 6 and 12, when the child’s permanent teeth settle into place. At Martin Orthodontics, treatment often begins between ages 7 and 14, because treatment that begins while a child is still growing helps to produce the best results. As a result, children should have an orthodontic evaluation no later than age 8. Your child’s regular dentist can spot problems with emerging teeth and jaw growth early on, and may recommend orthodontic treatment. Click here to learn more about common bite problems.
Can adults get braces?
Yes. And many adults are now opting to fix their smiles with orthodontic treatment. The biological process involved in moving teeth is essentially the same at any age. Adult treatment may take a little longer than a child's treatment, because an adult's facial bones are no longer growing. No matter your age, it's never too late to improve your dental health and beautify your smile. Contact Martin Orthodontics for an evaluation of your smile – we may also recommend invisalign® for your case.
Does getting braces hurt?
Generally, the process of getting the braces put on doesn’t hurt that much. Patients start to report pain within the first week after getting the braces. This is usually when the teeth start to loosen and move. At Martin Orthodontics, we do everything to provide the best orthodontic care with the least amount of pain. If you have soreness after getting your braces, try a regular pain reliever like Advil, Motrin or Tylenol. If pain persists or is extreme, contact Dr. Martin immediately.
How much do braces cost?
The price for getting braces will vary depending on the patient’s needs and the course and length of treatment. As a rule, the average is about $5,100. Invisalign® may cost a little more. At Martin Orthodontics, we offer a selection of payment options – including credit cards - and flexible payment plans. We also work directly with your insurance company to determine exactly what portion of treatment they will cover. Click here to learn more about Martin Orthodontics flexible payment plans.
Are braces covered by insurance?
Most dental plans include coverage for braces, but not all of them will cover the entire cost. In some cases, there will be a threshold for coverage, in other cases the insured will be required to pay a deductible. Every plan is different, but Martin Orthodontics will help you to understand exactly what portion of treatment your particular insurance company will cover. For the rest, you can choose a variety of flexible payment options. Click here to learn more about Martin Orthodontics flexible payment plans.
How long do braces have to stay on?
Every case is different, and so the length of time that braces have to stay on will vary. As a rule, children between the ages of 8 and 14 will likely have their braces on for a year or so. Adult treatment tends to last a little longer – up to two years – since the teeth are more firmly fixed in position. After your initial consultation at Martin Orthodontics, you’ll have a clear picture of how long your treatment plan will last.
Can I play sports with braces?
You can do just about anything with braces, including playing sports. If you are involved with heavy contact sports (like football or hockey,) Martin Orthodontics recommends getting a custom mouth guard to protect the patient. Mouth guards protect your teeth and your orthodontic equipment. Contact Martin Orthodontics for any questions regarding braces and athletics.
Can I eat normally with braces?
Yes. You can generally eat the same with braces as you can without, with a few guidelines for foods to avoid. At first, (maybe a week or two after your braces are put on,) you should try to stick to soft foods until your mouth is not sore. After that, Martin Orthodontics recommends a healthy diet and cautions you to avoid certain foods that may damage your equipment or your loosening teeth. Click here for a complete list of guidelines for eating with braces.
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Can anyone get invisalign®?
Yes. invisalign® is a viable option for both teens and adults, and depends largely on the details of your case and your dental health. When you come in for your consultation, Dr. Martin will either recommend invisalign® or traditional braces (or both) as the best course of treatment. You get to choose. Generally, invisalign® takes a little longer and costs a little more than traditional braces.
What happens when braces come off?
After your treatment plan is complete and you get your braces removed, you will likely be instructed to wear a retainer. This is to ensure that your teeth stay in their new position and have ample time to become more steady and more fixed in the mouth. Retainers are simple to use and removable devices that are customized for your mouth by Martin Orthodontics.