Phone: (425) 747-447714645 Bel-Red Road, Suite E101 Bellevue, WA 98007
Ask the Orthodontist
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
| This depends upon the amount of correction that is required. Typical complete braces take 1½ to 2½ years, however, limited treatment can be much quicker. Invisalign treatment often takes less than one year. |
What does it cost?
| Again, this depends upon the amount of correction required. An estimate of treatment fee will be given at the initial exam appointment. |
How much discomfort should I expect?
| You can expect a short period of discomfort following adjustment visits, typically 3-5 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers are typically adequate. |
How frequent are adjustment appointments?
| Adjustments are typically made every 4-8 weeks. |
What colors can I get?
| Braces come in silver, gold, and clear for the upper front teeth. All the fun colors that you see on people's braces are actually little rubber bands, or ties, that are changed every adjustment visit. We have almost every color imaginable. See the Brace Painter to design your own look. |
Am I a candidate for Invisalign?
| This will be determined during your initial exam visit. |
At what age should children be first seen?
| Age 7 as a rule of thumb or earlier if concerns arise. |
What should I do if something gets bent, broken, or lost?
| Breakage is a top cause of extended treatment time. We ask that you call right away and let us know when something is broken. We have 24-hour voicemail so call any time. |
Do I continue with regular dental visits?
| Absolutely! It is very important to have your teeth cleaned and checked by your dentist and hygienist. We prefer to coordinate your cleanings with your regular orthodontic visits so that your time is used most efficiently. Your wires are removed in our office, you then go to the dentist for cleaning, then return to our office for your regular adjustment. |
What precautions should be taken for sports?
| Athletic mouth guards are recommended whenever contact is possible. Mouth guards can prevent damage to the teeth and braces, and they also can prevent concussions! We can provide you with a custom multi-laminate mouth guard once your orthodontic treatment has been completed. |
Why do some people's teeth move after braces are removed?
| Teeth move throughout life, whether or not you've had orthodontic treatment. A program of retainer wear and follow-up checks helps maintain your treatment results. |
What if I grind my teeth at night?
| Mouth guards can be used to protect your teeth and jaw joints if you grind your teeth at night. Sometimes soft mouth guards are used during orthodontic treatment, although many people stop grinding while wearing braces. A custom night guard may be made following orthodontic treatment. |
How do you brush and floss with braces?
| We use a set of dental models with braces to demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques. There are some nice products available to make home care easier. Let us know if you have any questions. |
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