Question 1

What’s the difference between braces and Invisalign?

Accepted Answer

Braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires to gradually move teeth, while Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners. Braces are visible but effective for complex cases, while Invisalign is nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning. The best option depends on your teeth, bite, and lifestyle.

Question 2

Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

Accepted Answer

No. Orthodontic treatment can be effective at almost any age, provided the gums and bones are healthy. Adults often choose orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, to improve function, appearance, or long-term oral health.

Question 3

What problems can orthodontics fix?

Accepted Answer

Orthodontics can correct a wide range of issues, including:

Crooked or crowded teeth
Gaps between teeth
Overbite, underbite, and crossbite
Jaw alignment problems
Bite and chewing issues

The specific treatment plan depends on the severity and type of problem.

Question 4

How long will I need to wear braces?

Accepted Answer

The typical treatment time with braces is 12–36 months, depending on the complexity of your case, the type of braces, and how closely you follow your dentist’s instructions.

Question 5

Can I eat normally with braces?

Accepted Answer

While you can eat most foods, it’s best to avoid very hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can break brackets or bend wires. Your dentist will give you a full list of foods to avoid to protect your braces.

Question 6

How often do braces need adjustments?

Accepted Answer

Braces typically require adjustments every 4–8 weeks, depending on your treatment plan. These appointments allow the dentist or orthodontist to tighten wires, check progress, and make small changes to keep teeth moving correctly.

Question 7

What happens if a bracket or wire breaks?

Accepted Answer

If a bracket or wire breaks, it can cause discomfort, slow treatment, or damage to your teeth. Temporary measures may help, but it’s important to contact your dentist promptly to repair the braces and stay on schedule. Call our office immediately if a bracket or wire breaks so we can fix it safely.

Question 8

Does Invisalign work as well as braces?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Invisalign can be as effective as traditional braces for many orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, and mild to moderate bite problems. The success of Invisalign depends on following the treatment plan closely. Some complex cases may still be better suited for braces.

Question 9

How often do I have to wear Invisalign aligners?

Accepted Answer

For best results, Invisalign aligners should be worn 20–22 hours per day, only removing them to eat, drink (anything other than water), brush, and floss.

Question 10

What to use to clean Invisalign?

Accepted Answer

Invisalign aligners should be cleaned daily using a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented liquid soap or a cleaning solution made for aligners. Avoid toothpaste, which can scratch the plastic and make aligners cloudy.

Soak aligners in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a denture/retainer cleaning solution as recommended. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic. Soaking helps remove bacteria and plaque buildup.

Question 11

What happens if I forget to wear my aligners?

Accepted Answer

You should remove Invisalign aligners before eating or drinking anything besides water. Eating or drinking with the aligners in can stain or damage them, and may slow your treatment.