FAQ

They may at first. A soft piece of wax (provided by your orthodontist) can be used to cover a brace or wire that may be causing the sore. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water often helps as well. 

Modern bands and brackets are designed to minimize any discomfort. However, your mouth will usually be sore the first few days after you get braces and for a day or two each time they're tightened. This varies from patient to patient. If you experience pain that doesn't diminish, alert your doctor and he/she will determine the cause of your problem. Also, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as aspirin or ibuprofen may help if it is taken one hour before your appointment as needed. 

It depends on the individual case, but typically 50 minutes to one and one-half hour. 


Today, braces can be a fashion statement. At times, instead of traditional metal braces, contemporary looking braces can be used. For Self-ligating braces, which require no elastic ties, can possibly reduce the number of orthodontic visits. There are several types of so-called "invisible braces." Some of these are "clear/transparent" in color but work like traditional metal braces. In addition, there are a series of invisible mouth guard like appliances (not really braces) that patients can remove to eat and clean. The choice of appliance is somewhat dependent on the arrangement of the crooked teeth. 

At your complimentary initial visit, we'll determine a course of treatment and provide an estimate of the treatment costs. If you decide you would like to move forward, we can take the required records including X-rays, and make an appointment to proceed with your orthodontic care. 

Treatment time in orthodontics is quite variable depending on difficulty and also patient cooperation. Sometimes new technologies, proper diagnosis and treatment plans can shorten treatment times. Typically for comprehensive cases requiring a full set of braces, the range of treatment time is 18 to 27 months. Keeping your appointments, following your doctor's instructions, caring for your braces and practicing good oral hygiene is the best method of completing your treatment on time, or in some cases, earlier than anticipated.