BRACES F.A.Q.
It takes some serious planning and some time to transform a smile, as you or your family member prepare to go through the orthodontic treatment we know you'll have some questions. This page is designed to provide you all of the Braces F.A.Q. and help you navigate the "what if's" of treatment. Plus, at your consultation and at each appointment thereafter, our orthodontist and orthodontic technicians are there to answer any questions that pop up in between!
How Do I Know If I Need Braces?
There are many reasons why a patient would need braces, ranging from bite and alignment issues to crowding or spacing. Many people simply want to change the appearance of their smile while others require orthodontic treatment due to health needs (TMJ, frequent headaches from misaligned bite, etc..). At iSmile Ortho, we begin screening for orthodontic needs at age 7. Through a visual exam and when necessary, radiographs, we are able to diagnose your orthodontic conditions and provide a treatment plan designed to correct any issues found. Below, we show some of the most common reasons a patient may need orthodontic treatment. Remember, consultations are FREE, so call for your appointment or have your dental team refer you to Dr. Thompson to discuss any concerns you may have.
What Kind of Braces Should I Get?
There are many different types of orthodontic treatments available, a discussion with the orthodontist regarding your treatment needs, goals for your smile, and expected length of treatment will help you understand the differences in each option and select the treatment that will best help you achieve the results you want. Our team provides both traditional style (brackets & wires) braces as well as Invisalign. Dr. Thompson is North Central WV's Certified, Preferred Invisalign Provider and he welcomes patients interested in Invisalign, Invisalign Express and Invisalign Teen.
How Do I Take Care Of My Braces?
Good home care, along with your preventative dental appointments including exams and cleanings, are an important part of taking care of your smile while in braces. Our team will provide you with detailed directions on how to floss and brush around your braces, as well as the best ways to keep your brackets and wires in great condition and avoid any issues (like a broken wire or a bracket that comes off).
What if I do have an emergency?
First, the iSmile Ortho team is always available to help you out! We have team members on call for any after-hours or weekend issues that might happen and with 6 offices around North Central WV, we always can get you in to see us...FAST! If something comes up, simply give us a call - we'll provide detailed instruction on how to deal with the emergency until you can get to us and we'll schedule you right away.
What Can I EAT If I Have Braces?
Well, if you have Invisalign, the sky's the limit - you simply pop out your trays, eat what you like and then brush up before putting those trays back in. If you have traditional braces, appliances (like an expander or spacers), or permanent retainers - we'll provide a detailed food list for you when you get your braces. A good rule of thumb is if it's hard, sharp or sticky - STAY AWAY!
Additionally, when you first get your braces or after an adjustment, your mouth may feel tender. For those instances, we suggest having a soft, nutritious diet for a day or so until the soreness subsides. Think along the lines of soup, pasta, mashed potatoes, applesauce, etc...
Additionally, when you first get your braces or after an adjustment, your mouth may feel tender. For those instances, we suggest having a soft, nutritious diet for a day or so until the soreness subsides. Think along the lines of soup, pasta, mashed potatoes, applesauce, etc...
Ok, That's All Great Information - BUT, I still have questions. Like, what happens at my consult, how are the braces put on, what are all the parts called, how long with my treatment last, and so on....
It's OK! We understand that orthodontic treatment can be a big decision, an investment in your future and a commitment to your health! If you have questions that aren't covered above, please bring them with you to your consultation, next appointment or give us a call. Dr. Thompson and the team are happy to dedicate as much time as needed to answering all of your questions and help you through this process!
It's OK! We understand that orthodontic treatment can be a big decision, an investment in your future and a commitment to your health! If you have questions that aren't covered above, please bring them with you to your consultation, next appointment or give us a call. Dr. Thompson and the team are happy to dedicate as much time as needed to answering all of your questions and help you through this process!
