Orchin Orthodontics present: Frequently asked questions

Patients in orthodontic treatment ask questions. They want to know specifics, they want to know logistics and they want to make sure they've made the right decision. With Orchin Orthodontics, they can be rest assured they have. Here are a sample of most frequent questions that patients ask our dedicated staff. If you have a question, but don't see it on the list below, please give our office a call and one of our staff members will be happy to answer any question you may have!

Q: Do braces hurt to put on?
A: No, it does not hurt to put braces on. The sealant we brush on the teeth to help hold the bracket on smells bad for a few seconds. The appointment for full braces is an easy visit that lasts about 90 minutes and the patient leaves with brackets and wires.

Q: Do braces hurt?
A: No, You may have some soreness by dinner time. Many patients report that their teeth feel loose or achy. We recommend you keep your food soft for the first couple of days. For example, if you want red meat, have hamburger instead of steak. Take Tylenol, Advil or whatever you take for pain. It may a few days to adjust to braces. Some patients find it helpful to repeat these steps after having their wires changed. Every patient is unique and you will figure out what works best for you.

Q: How often do I have to come in for adjustments?
A: The time will vary, but it’s usually every 6-8 weeks. You will be informed of the date you are due for your next visit before you leave the office. In order to secure the time you prefer, we strongly encourage you to stop at the front desk to schedule that appointment before leaving the office. Remember that most of the patients in the office with you are due to return for another visit about the same you are.

Q: Do you have colored braces?
A: No, We utilize SPEED Braces which are about 1/3 the size of traditional braces. SPEED Braces do not need external colored elastics to hold the wires in because they are very high tech and have integrated clips that secure the wires.

Q: Can I get colors?
A: No, SPEED Braces only come in silver metal. On occasion we use a “chain” and the chain comes in many color choices – we will let you choose your favorite color.

Q: Will my teeth be stained after the braces come off?
A: Not if you follow our brushing and flossing techniques and maintain regular dental cleanings with your general dentist. If we notice that your hygiene needs improvement, we will revisit the brushing and flossing techniques with you and may recommend you see your dentist every 3 or 4 months for a professional cleaning while in active orthodontic treatment. Please remember we are trying to help you, not criticize you. It is our intention to give you the best result possible. We do everything we can to minimize the time our patients wear braces which also helps avoid staining of the teeth.

Q: Will the braces affect my speech?
A: No, braces do not usually interfere with articulation.

Q: How long will my braces be on?
A: Every treatment plan is different, so the length time varies. Dr. Orchin will let you know how long you can expect to be in braces before you start treatment.

Q: What do I do if something breaks?
A: If you are uncomfortable, call the office. If we are closed, there will be a number on our voicemail to reach the doctor. If you are comfortable, please wait until your next scheduled appointment.

Q: If I play sports, do I need a new mouth guard or can I wear the one I already have?
A: If you wear a mouth guard, we will provide one for you (at no additional charge). It is important that you do not use one of the fitted “boil at home” mouth guards while you are in orthodontic treatment. We are moving your teeth which means that any fitted mouth guard will work against us and slow down or halt your orthodontic progress.

Q: Will the braces irritate my mouth?
A: Yes, sometimes your mouth will get irritated from the brackets until it becomes callused. SPEED Braces have rounded edges to help minimize the discomfort but there is still and adjustment period. If your mouth becomes sensitive, we provide wax for you apply which helps with the irritation. We will automatically give you wax the day we place the brackets. You may pick up extra wax if needed at your next appointment or any drug store (near the dental floss).