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What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the straightening of teeth with the use of removable or fixed appliances. Quite simply, a beautiful smile is your best possible asset. Orthodontic treatment is not just about making the best of your teeth; it is about improving the harmony of your mouth and jaws. Once you can bite together correctly, you can eat more comfortably and care for your teeth and gums more easily.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a highly trained dental specialist who has completed two or three years of training after graduating from dental school. Specialist orthodontists are on the Register of Dental Specialists, the Division of Orthodontics regulated by the Dental Council of Ireland.
Why should you choose an orthodontic specialist?
Teeth and sometimes faces are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. Therefore, it is very important that the treatment be done properly.
Do I need to be referred by my dentist?
No, you do not. However, if you have not been to your dentist for some time, it is a good idea to have a check-up before attending our practice.
Do braces "hurt"?
Generally, braces do not "hurt". After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all! We often remind our patients: “It does not have to hurt to work!”
Will braces affect my speech?
Fixed appliances will not affect your speech. It takes a few days to become accustomed to wearing a removable brace. After this initial period, your speech will return to normal.
What foods can I eat with braces
You can eat as normal, but avoid hard chewy foods that may damage your braces. Nuts, popcorn, toffees, gum etc. should be avoided.
Do I need to see my dentist during my orthodontic treatment?
Yes! We recommend you see your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning.
How long will it take?
Treatment time varies. More complex treatments take longer, but the average time in fixed appliances is eighteen to twenty-four months.
Can I play sports?
Yes! However, it is important that you wear a gumshield.
Do I need extractions?
Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary.
Will I have to wear a retainer?
Yes – Teeth, like the rest of your body, change over time. Simply wearing a retainer as directed is an easy solution for maintaining your orthodontic results.
How do I brush my teeth?
We will show you how to brush and floss your teeth when your braces are fitted. It takes a little longer to clean your teeth at night. We will give you all the instruction and advice you need.
How much will treatment cost?
It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined you. We will discuss the cost and flexible financial options during your initial examination.
How often will I have appointments?
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every 6 to 8 weeks. Sometimes you will need to attend more frequently; we will schedule appointments accordingly.
Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
We understand that most patients have obligations during the day usually involving work or school. In an effort to cause as little disruption to your day as possible we generally schedule longer appointments in the morning while early and after-school appointments are booked with regular adjustments.
Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is "too old" to wear braces! |
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