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?

Braces are used by your orthodontist to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:

  • 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?

The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.

Do braces hurt?

Braces do not often hurt though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.

Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?

With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn’t able to reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.

If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?

Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Will my braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?

Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.

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

5.0 – 68 reviews
83 people recommend us

Folow Us

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Latonya Hill 
 
 
 Latonya Hill 
 
2023-09-29
 
 
  
I 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 Ghent 
 
 
 Laurenton Ghent 
 
2022-09-16
 
 
  
Braces 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 Cooper 
 
 
 Sharon Cooper 
 
2022-09-13
 
 
  
I love Dr. Ashley Barnes! She’s extremely professional and caring.  I love how my Invisaligns.  Would definitely recommend her office
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Torry Dunbar 
 
 
 Torry Dunbar 
 
2022-05-29
 
 
  
Everytime 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 Barnes
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Ericka Oliver 
 
 
 Ericka Oliver 
 
2022-05-27
 
 
  
I’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 Embry 
 
 
 Wendy Embry 
 
2022-05-26
 
 
  
Friendly! Accommodating! Professional!  Everyone here is so nice and the office is very clean!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Google rating score: 4.7 of 5, based on 69 reviews

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