Frequently Asked Questions About Braces

Common Questions About Orthodontic Treatments

Do braces hurt?

Generally, braces do not “hurt.” After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all. We often remind our patients, it does not have to hurt to work! Click the video above to hear more from Dr. McIntosh.

Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?

No, teeth will not straighten over time. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.

Is my child old enough for treatment?

When your child receives their first orthodontic screening around 7 years old, your orthodontist can discuss whether treatment is necessary at that time. If your child’s condition doesn’t require braces or treatment right away, they are generally monitored periodically over the next few years. Once more teeth come in, treatment specifics can be discussed. Learn more about early treatment from the video above

Will I need to have teeth extracted for treatment?

Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic results. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary for braces. Less than 20% of our patients need to have teeth extracted.

Can I wear braces if I have crowns, missing teeth, or veneers?

Yes you absolutely can. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will help alignment of the remaining teeth. Watch the video above from Dr. McIntosh for more details on this topic.

How long will it take to complete treatment?

Treatment time depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem. In general, treatment time lasts from 18 to 24 months. Check out Dr. McIntosh’s video for more information on treatment length.

How much do braces cost?

It is difficult to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined your condition thoroughly. Our team will cover the exact cost and financial options during your initial examination. We have several financing options available to accommodate your needs and we’re happy to review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefits and file your claims. Please contact our staff with any questions about paying for braces.

After my braces are on, how often will I have appointments?

Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in treatment will be seen every 6 to 10 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.

Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?

Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled 6 to 10 weeks apart, most patients will miss a minimal amount of school due to appointments. We will, however, make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.

Can I drop off my child for an appointment?

Yes. Our staff understands your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return. We ask that parents check in with the front desk personnel before dropping off their child.

Can my child return to school the day they receive their braces?

Yes. There is no reason you cannot return to school the same day to show off your new braces! Our office is happy to provide a school note upon request.

Are shots used in any treatments?

No, shots are not necessary in orthodontics.

Do you use recycled braces?

Absolutely not! It is our belief that each patient should be provided with their own braces to achieve the best orthodontic result possible.

Can I still play sports with braces?

Yes, but we recommend using a mouth guard for all sports.

Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?

Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are very important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.

Are there foods I can’t eat while I have braces?

Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain with complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our food instructions

How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?

Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss their teeth with braces. We may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride if necessary.

Will my child need an expander?

At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient needs an expander.

Is it too late to get braces if I am already an adult? Will I feel out of place at McIntosh Orthodontics?

No patient is“too old”to wear braces! In fact, 50 percent of our orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. Our practice is geared towards seeing patients of all ages, especially adults.

Why should you choose an orthodontic specialist?

Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment is appropriate and completed properly by a trained professional. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that allows them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.

What is the “McIntosh Difference?"

Dr. McIntosh has been practicing orthodontics since 1991. At our practice, orthodontic treatment for you and your family is more than just a job to our team of professionals. With the McIntosh Difference, patients can expect: