Orthodontic FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
About Orthodontics
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.
How can I take care of my teeth if I'm wearing braces or a retainer?
- ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
- Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
- If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.
- Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
- During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities.
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).
- Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.
What are braces?
- Clear braces
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces
- Self-ligating braces
- Invisible braces
- Traditional metal braces
If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?
Do braces hurt?
Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?
If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
Will my braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need.
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Testimonials
Latonya Hill2023-09-29I absolutely loved my experience if your someone looking to get braces and arent 100% sure they will help you everyone is very knowledgeable everyone is so nice and pleasant i didn't feel 100% confident in my smile before i came due to some minor issues and after i did my consultation i left feeling more confident in moving forward with getting braces from the staff to the doctors they are all great all smiles all happy great vibe i cant wait to go back to get my braces Im excited and I'm glad i found a great place to help me even when it came down to explaining how much things would cost it was broken down great i highly recommend anyone to go here great place and you wont be disappointed ❤️Laurenton Ghent2022-09-16Braces by Barnes staff including both Dr. Barnes were very professional and down to earth at the same time. They made me feel comfortable and confident about my braces. The process was detailed from consultation to every visit. Well worth the review.Sharon Cooper2022-09-13I love Dr. Ashley Barnes! She’s extremely professional and caring. I love how my Invisaligns. Would definitely recommend her officeTorry Dunbar2022-05-29Everytime I visit Braces by Barnes my experience Is very welcoming. The best experience from a Dentist I ever been to. Everybody is professional, pleasant and eager to address all of my Dental concerns. Very clean place Thank you Braces by BarnesEricka Oliver2022-05-27I’m not sure why they only have 4.7 stars, because they definitely deserve 5 stars. The environment is amazing. Everyone is friendly which makes your experience even better. You feel more at home then at a dental appointment. The facility is very clean and the staff is just amazing. The prices are affordable, an they work with you with no hassle. My mouth was shaped like a horse because how far my teeth stuck out an now my mouth is shaped like a human mouth. Lbvs. I refer them to everyone looking to get corrections. If your looking for a place to call your orthodontist to home, stop looking an join the Barnes family.Wendy Embry2022-05-26Friendly! Accommodating! Professional! Everyone here is so nice and the office is very clean!Google rating score: 4.7 of 5, based on 69 reviews