Frequently Asked Orthodontic Questions – Ludlow, MA
Got Questions? Ludlow Orthodontics Can Help!
There’s a lot to learn when you or your child begin orthodontic care, and our Ludlow Orthodontics team is sure that you have several questions. For this reason, we’ve decided to include the answers to a handful of the questions that our team members get asked the most often. We hope to make you well-informed about every aspect of your treatment so that you can be sure the investment you’re making in your oral health is the right one. If your question isn’t answered on this page, we’d love to provide additional information during your appointment!
When should I bring my child in for an orthodontic exam?
We highly suggest that you schedule your son or daughter for their initial orthodontic exam by the time they turn seven years old. By that point, most if not all of their baby teeth should have fallen out. It’s also an ideal age for Dr. Alkhoury to identify and plan to treat alignment issues early on. Because your child’s oral anatomy is still developing, problems are easier to adjust with orthodontics.
Does my child need to wear a retainer after braces?
Yes, wearing a retainer is almost always necessary after completing braces or other types of orthodontic treatment. Otherwise, the teeth will begin to revert back to their original misaligned positions. At first, your child must wear their retainer for the entire day, only taking it out to eat and practice oral hygiene. Dr. Alkhoury can let you know when they can start wearing it less often.
Do I have options for straightening teeth other than metal braces?
Definitely! We offer several options for adults and teenagers alike to straighten their pearly whites without sacrificing their smile’s appearance. For example, we can provide Invisalign clear aligners, ceramic braces, and Damon braces, which can be made with see-through materials. When you visit us for a consultation, we can talk about the differences in greater detail.
What’s the best way to finance my orthodontic care?
It depends on whether you have dental insurance or no insurance at all. We’re in-network with a large number of PPO dental insurance plans. Our knowledgeable team members will make sure you’re getting all of the benefits you deserve!
Does getting braces hurt?
When you first get your braces, your mouth will probably ache for the next couple of days. Additionally, you’ll likely feel some mild soreness after getting your braces tightened, but in both cases, any discomfort should be temporary. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed should be enough to manage your symptoms.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Depending on the magnitude of your orthodontic issues, as well as the specific treatment method you choose, it can take anywhere from six months to three years to fully straighten your smile. Of course, you’ll need to speak with Dr. Alkhoury during a consultation to get an accurate estimate of your treatment timeline.
Do I still visit my general dentist regularly during orthodontic treatment?
Yes! Even when you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. In fact, our team will partner with your dentist to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy every step of the way. After all, tooth decay and other oral health problems can complicate your orthodontic treatment.
