At Innovative Orthodontics, we get questions all the time from patients and parents about orthodontic treatment, from how much braces cost to why a retainer is needed after braces are removed. We’ve even received a few unique but important questions that might not be common knowledge.
We’ve created a list of the questions patients or parents may have about orthodontic treatment. Most are common questions, but a couple may be a bit, well, odd. Still, they’re not as uncommon as you may think!
AT WHAT AGE SHOULD MY CHILD SEE AN ORTHODONTIST?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child see an orthodontist by age 7. By this age, many of the front permanent teeth are in, and an orthodontist will be able to spot potential issues with the child’s developing mouth.
HOW MUCH DO BRACES COST?
The cost of treatment can vary, depending on what treatment you need and how much. Dr. Bill will examine you or your child and figure out a treatment plan. We will then provide a final cost. If you need help paying for braces, Innovative Orthodontics offers several financing options.
CAN I WEAR INVISALIGN INSTEAD OF BRACES?
Invisalign can take care of several orthodontic issues, from overbites and underbites to gapped or crooked teeth. That means it’s an option for many of our patients. We’ll examine your teeth to make sure it’s an option for you.
HOW LONG DOES TREATMENT TAKE?
Treatment times can vary depending on how much needs to be fixed. On average, patients wear our Empower Braces from 12-18 months. Invisalign treatment takes an average of 9-15 months.
ARE THERE FOODS I CAN’T EAT WITH BRACES?
Foods that are hard, sticky, or chewy can damage your braces and should be avoided. This can include hard candies, taffy, popcorn, tortilla chips, gum, nuts, and hard vegetables such as raw carrots.
ARE THERE FOODS I CAN’T EAT WITH INVISALIGN?
Because Invisalign can be removed for eating, there are no food restrictions. However, it’s important to brush your teeth before putting your Invisalign back in your mouth. It’s also advised to remove Invisalign if you’re drinking colored liquids such as coffee, tea, or fruit juices because they can stain your clear aligners.
WHY DO I NEED A RETAINER?
Once your braces or Invisalign are removed, your teeth may still move. That’s why it’s essential to wear your retainer at least 22 hours a day, so your teeth stay in place. Once your jaw “sets” and the teeth stop moving, you may not have to wear your retainer as long, but you should wear it for the rest of your life to ensure you keep that perfect smile.
CAN I MAKE IT THROUGH AIRPORT SECURITY WITH BRACES?
You’d be surprised at how often this question comes up. I’m sure there have been more than one patient who has imagined alarms sounding at the airport, a rush of TSA agents, and interrogations in a bare room because they tried to go through security, and their braces set off the metal detectors.
Let’s clear this one up quickly: It’s a myth that braces can set off metal detectors at the airport, or anywhere, for that matter.
The reality is, traditional metal braces are made of a stainless steel material that metal detectors won’t flag. You won’t set off alarms because of your braces. If you’re really worried, just flash the TSA agent your biggest smile. If nothing else, they might appreciate a lovely smile from you!
WILL MY BRACES PICK UP RADIO SIGNALS?
There have been reports of this over the years, with everything from braces to fillings. We think this is a bit of an “old wives’ tale.” You should be safe from radio signals blasting from your mouth. If you want to hear music, don’t attach any antennas to your mouth. Stick to Spotify for your music.
CAN I KISS SOMEONE WITH BRACES?
Here’s another common myth — you go to kiss someone who also has braces, and you get all locked up. While this may be a remote possibility, it’s also a remote possibility that you could get struck by lightning and charged by a rhinoceros simultaneously.
What you can do, although also by a very remote chance, is cut or pinch your kissing partner’s lips against your brackets. Bottom line, feel free to kiss; just do so gently.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Innovative Orthodontics proudly serves the South Jersey area, including Sicklerville, Mount Laurel, Woolrich Township, and Mullica Hill. If you have other questions about orthodontic care, we’re happy to help. You can contact us online or give us a call, and we’ll be happy to answer all your questions!
