WE TEND TO HEAR a lot of the same questions from our patients because a lot of people don’t know much about how orthodontic treatment works. We’re here to head some of those questions off with a Q and A session. Make sure you bring any questions we missed to your next appointment!
Question 1: What makes a bite “bad”?
Malocclusion means “bad bite” in Latin, and we use it as the umbrella term for the following problems with jaw alignment:
- Underbite: when biting down, the lower teeth cover the upper teeth.
- Overbite: when biting down, the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth too much.
- Deep bite: the overbite is so extreme that the lower teeth touch the gums behind the upper teeth when biting down.
- Crossbite: some of the upper teeth are in front and some of the lower teeth are in front while biting down.
Each of these malocclusion types comes with its own set of dental health risks and other issues, such as causing problems for clear speech and effective chewing. The only way to correct them is with orthodontic treatment.
Question 2: Can I still play musical instruments if I get braces?
It’s true that trumpets, flutes, and other instruments with a mouthpiece aren’t as easy to play with braces, but it’s definitely still doable. There will probably be an adjustment period and it may take a few extra hours of practice to get the hang of it. Make sure to let us know if you’re still struggling because we might be able to find a solution that lets you keep playing!
Question 3: Can I speed up my treatment with extra rubber bands?
NO. We’re not giving you a slower treatment plan than we could; it’s designed to get your teeth into their correct positions as efficiently and safely as possible. Wearing extra rubber bands will only cause new problems that we will then have to correct, making your treatment even longer! The best way to get to Braces Off Day on time is by following our instructions exactly.
Question 4: Can a person be too old for orthodontic treatment?
No. We tend to think of braces as being part of adolescence, culturally, and there are advantages to completing orthodontic treatment early. However, adults can get braces too! There’s no need to feel like you’ve missed your only opportunity to get the straight smile you want just because you didn’t get braces in high school. Schedule a consultation with us and we can make a plan for your treatment.
Question 5: How long will my treatment take?
Every patient’s treatment is unique, so how long it takes for you depends on how complex your case is and on how well you follow the orthodontist’s instructions. A simple case may take only a few months to fix, while a very complicated one may take closer to two years. Keep realistic expectations and try not to compare your treatment time to someone else’s.
Did We Miss One of Your Questions?
We don’t want to leave any of our patients hanging with important questions about orthodontic treatment. Patient education is one of our top priorities, as it’s a crucial way to build patient confidence. If you have a burning question about braces that we didn’t answer for you here, give us a call or ask at your next adjustment!
