Frequently Asked Questions

Rubber bands (elastics) should be worn 22+ hours per day unless otherwise instructed by our doctor. Remove them only for eating, brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear is CRUCIAL for getting the results you want on schedule. Forgetting to wear them can extend your treatment time by several months!

Absolutely! We recommend wearing a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your braces and teeth. We provide custom orthodontic mouthguards at a special price for our patients. Let us know at your next appointment if you need one!

Yes, this is completely normal! Your teeth may feel tender for 2-3 days after an adjustment as they begin to move. Stick to soft foods during this time. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) as directed. The soreness will go away quickly, and it gets easier with each adjustment!

Yes! In fact, it's very important to continue seeing your general dentist every 6 months for regular cleanings and check-ups while in orthodontic treatment. We work closely with your dentist to ensure your teeth stay healthy throughout treatment.

Regular appointments are essential for staying on track with your treatment plan. If you need to reschedule, please call us at least 24 hours in advance. Missing appointments can delay your treatment completion date. We understand emergencies happen—just let us know as soon as possible so we can reschedule you!

After your braces or aligners are removed, you'll wear your retainer full-time (except when eating) for the first 3-6 months. After that, most patients transition to wearing it only at night. However, we recommend wearing your retainer at night indefinitely to maintain your beautiful results. Teeth can shift at any age!

Call us immediately! If you've already moved to the next set, you may be able to continue with those. If not, we'll need to order replacements, which typically take 1-2 weeks. There may be a replacement fee depending on your specific treatment plan. This is why we always recommend keeping your previous set as a backup!

Your orthodontist will monitor your progress at each appointment. You should notice gradual changes in your smile. If you have concerns between appointments, don't hesitate to call our office. We're always happy to answer questions and provide reassurance about your treatment progress.

We recommend waiting until after your braces are removed to whiten your teeth. Whitening while wearing braces can result in uneven coloring because the areas covered by brackets won't be whitened. Many patients choose to whiten their teeth after treatment for an even, bright smile!