Braces FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

Why Do I Need Braces?

Braces are usually needed to correct crooked or misaligned teeth or problems with your bite (how your teeth in the upper and lower jaw meet). If your teeth are not evenly spaced, out of alignment, or don’t meet properly, they can interfere with your ability to speak clearly and eat properly. They may also cause breathing problems in severe cases.

Straightening your teeth with braces also makes it easier to keep your teeth clean, helping to prevent cavities and reduce the risk of gum disease. While most people need braces for functional reasons, some may opt for them for aesthetic purposes if they do not require them for functionality.

What Age Is Best for Braces?

Most children see an orthodontist in Davis, CA, typically between the ages of 10 and 14, when they have a mix of primary and permanent teeth and their jaw is still developing. However, we recommend having your child’s teeth evaluated around age 7 because some orthodontic problems may show up at this early age and require early intervention through a two-phase process.

How Long Will I Have to Wear Braces?

It depends on what problem is being addressed, the severity of the situation, and other considerations. Each patient’s orthodontic journey is unique. At your initial consultation, Dr. Molitor can give you an idea of how long you will have to wear your braces.

Do Braces Hurt?

You may experience some mild discomfort or aching when your braces are adjusted or tightened. This is typically easy to alleviate with over-the-counter pain relievers and doesn’t last more than a few days.

How Much Do Braces Cost in Davis, CA?

There is no set fee for braces because each set of braces is customized for the individual patient. As an experienced orthodontist in Davis, CA, Dr. Molitor can give you an estimate of how much your braces will cost at your initial consultation.

What Types of Braces Are There?

There are several types of braces available, including metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners. You and your orthodontist in Davis, CA, can work together to determine what type is most appropriate for your needs.

What Foods Should I Avoid with Braces?

Any foods that are sticky, crunchy, or extremely hard should be avoided. These foods can bend or break the brackets or wires of your braces, leading to injury and requiring repairs.

How Do I Take Care of My Braces?

Brushing and flossing properly are essential to good oral health while wearing braces. You should brush after every meal whenever possible because your braces are ideal hiding places for food debris, bacteria, and plaque buildup. If you can’t brush after every meal, be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. You can learn more about keeping your teeth clean on our page about how to brush and floss effectively with braces.

Always wear a mouthguard when participating in sports to protect your mouth from damage, and use orthodontic wax on your brackets if they are irritating your gums.

Can Adults Get Braces Too?

Yes. If you did not get braces as a child, now is the ideal time to invest in them. We have more options than ever for correcting bite problems and straightening crooked teeth. Many of our adult patients choose clear braces or aligners such as Invisalign® to improve their smiles discreetly, without friends and colleagues knowing.