Preparing for Braces

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

It is completely normal to feel a bit apprehensive when you first consider going to an orthodontist. Whether your dentist has advised you to seek care from Quest Johnson Orthodontics, or you have decided to do so on your own, there are a few things you can do to prepare for your initial exam with Dr. Quest, Dr. Johnson and their team.

Before your initial orthodontic appointment, we will do our part to educate you on the process of getting braces. But it is always good if you can do some research of your own to ease any lingering fears.

Things to Know

1. Your initial appointment is about 60 minutes. This appointment allows us time to gather some information and obtain photographs, indicated X-rays, and a clinical examination. When you call to schedule this appointment, you will be asked to provide some personal information, along with any orthodontic insurance coverage you have so that we can verify your benefits and provide you with the most accurate estimate. If treatment is indicated, an approximate estimate of the time and fees involved will be provided.

2. You will not need to do anything out of the ordinary to prepare for the day your braces will be placed. The only thing we ask is that you brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before your appointment.

3. Braces are applied using a special adhesive that cures rapidly initially but takes 24-hours to completely cure. At the end of your braces appointment, a team member will explain how to brush and floss, review what foods to avoid, and what to do if you experience any difficulties with your braces. You will want to check your braces daily for anything loose or bent. If a bracket or band comes loose or you break a wire, please call our office so we can arrange an appointment to repair it.

4. You can expect some discomfort for the first few days after having your braces placed. This is temporary and can be relieved by rinsing with warm salt water or by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.

5. After your braces have been placed, you can expect to come back for adjustment appointments about every 8 weeks. Adjustment appointments typically take about 15-45 minutes based on the involvement of the adjustment.

If you are interested in braces for children, teens, or adults, start by visiting our website and familiarizing yourself with the different types of braces we offer…then give us a call to schedule your initial exam.

Orthodontic Myths

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Choosing to get orthodontic care is a big decision for anyone. At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we understand and respect your reasons for wanting to improve the way you look and feel. Our practice will work with you every step of the way to make sure your orthodontic treatment is an amazing experience. Our office utilizes the latest technology while offering a variety of safe and gentle treatment options to give you the customized, individual care you deserve.

We are often asked a lot of great questions on orthodontic care and treatment. We have also seen a lot of false information on orthodontic treatment. Some are rumors and others are myths that are believed to be true. Here are a few orthodontic myths and the truth.

Myth: “My dentist can give me Invisalign.”

Truth: At the foundational level, both an orthodontist and a dentist are health care professionals that work on teeth. Both health care professionals help patients achieve good oral health and both are dental school graduates. However, orthodontists must successfully complete an additional two to three-year residency program of advanced dental education in orthodontics. Orthodontists specialize in the alignment of teeth and services include treating crowded teeth, overbites and under bites. Only an orthodontist who has been trained and certified by Align Technology can diagnose and treat using Invisalign.

Myth: “Braces and orthodontic treatment are only for children.”

Truth: Braces are not just for kids… orthodontics can be rewarding to adults as well. Our teeth provide the support structure for the soft tissue of the lower face, including lips and cheeks. By repositioning the teeth and jaw, skin can appear tighter, and lips can appear fuller.

Myth: “I can’t play sports anymore because I have braces.”

Truth: Having braces, does not mean you have to stop living your life. Whether you just received braces or are near the end of your treatment, braces should not be a barrier to doing the things you love. As long as you wear a mouth guard, braces should not stop you from playing your favorite sport. If you are unsure which type of mouth guard to use or need more information on mouth guards, ask our staff.

Myth: “My teeth will remain straight forever.”

Truth: The truth is…even after your braces have been removed your orthodontic treatment is not over. If you want your teeth to remain straight forever, a retainer will be the most important tool for you to use. Your teeth will start to drift back to the original position if you do not wear your retainer as prescribed by Dr. Johnson and Dr. Quest. Just like you need to keep exercising and eating right to maintain your body; you cannot just diet and exercise once.

Myth: “I don’t need to see my regular dentist while in orthodontic treatment.”

Truth: Even during orthodontic treatment, it is important that you continue to visit your general dentist and continue your regularly scheduled appointments. Wearing braces can make you more prone to plaque and tartar around your teeth, which is why you should stick with your regular dental check-ups.

A new smile means a new life change. At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we understand that a big decision like this is not easy. We will ensure that we answer all questions and make you feel comfortable. If you have any addition questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask us before coming to your first visit.