What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
Who is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received 2 to 3 years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
What’s the best age to visit the orthodontist?
It’s never too early—or too late—to achieve a confident smile.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age seven. At this age, an orthodontist can identify subtle issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth, helping determine the best time to begin treatment. But orthodontic care isn’t just for kids—one in five patients today are adults over the age of 21. Whether you’re looking into treatment for your child or considering it for yourself, any age is the right age to visit the orthodontist.
How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces or Invisalign?
✅ Brush and floss regularly
Brush after every meal
Floss at least once a day
Use fluoride toothpaste and the fluoride varnish we provide to help prevent cavities
🦷 Invisalign® patients:
Remove your aligners to eat, brush, and floss
Always store them in their case when not in use
Clean your aligners gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste
You can also soak them in denture cleaner twice a week
Never use hot or boiling water, or put them in the dishwasher
🚫 Avoid these foods during treatment:
Sugary foods (encourage plaque and cavities)
Sticky/chewy foods (caramel, gum, gummy bears)
Hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes)
Foods that can damage or get stuck in braces (corn on the cob, bagels, ribs, taffy)
🪥 Keep seeing your dentist
Continue regular dental cleanings every six months
We’ll help coordinate these with your orthodontic visits
What are braces?
Braces are a powerful way to transform your smile.
Your orthodontist uses braces to improve both the appearance and function of your teeth. Today, there are several types of braces to fit your lifestyle and preferences, including:
Traditional metal braces
Clear braces
Invisible, behind the teeth braces
Invisible aligners (like Invisalign®)
Your orthodontist will help you choose the option that works best for your needs and goals.
If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?
Treatment time varies because every smile is unique.
The length of time a patient spends in braces depends on their individual needs and how their teeth respond to treatment. While some cases may take as little as six months and others up to 30 months, most standard treatments are completed in about 22 months on average.
Do braces hurt?
Getting used to your new braces may take a few days.
It’s normal to feel some mild discomfort when your braces are first placed, as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth adjust. The good news? Most patients find that any soreness fades quickly—and braces are generally not uncomfortable once your mouth gets used to them.
Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?
Brushing and flossing are more important than ever with braces.
To keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy, be sure to brush after every meal to remove food particles that can get trapped around your braces. In addition to brushing, use a proxy brush and floss daily to clean the areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Don’t worry—your orthodontist will show you exactly how to brush and floss properly once your braces are in place.
If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
Good oral hygiene is especially important with braces.
To keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy during treatment, you should brush after every meal to remove food particles that may get caught in your braces. In addition to regular brushing, use a proxy brush and floss daily to clean those hard-to-reach areas. Your orthodontist will show you the best techniques for brushing and flossing once your braces are placed.
Will my braces interfere with my school activities; like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?
Braces won’t hold you back from doing what you love.
Whether you play an instrument or participate in a contact sport, you can continue all your school activities while wearing braces. It may take a little time to adjust at first, but you’ll be back in the swing of things quickly. If you play a contact sport, Dr. Akhavan strongly recommends wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces. We’re happy to provide a custom mouthguard at no charge—just ask!
How do I schedule an appointment?
Scheduling an appointment is easy—just give us a call!
Our Appointment Coordinators are happy to help you find a time that works best for you. If you’re a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know—we’ll make sure you have everything you need for your first visit.
