Frequently Asked Orthodontic Questions – Hopkinton, MA

When should I schedule my child’s first orthodontic appointment?

The ideal time to bring your child in to the orthodontist is after most of their baby teeth have fallen out, generally around the age of seven. At this point in their development, we’ll be able to identify problems and treat them more easily compared to later.

Is a retainer always necessary?

Once a patient finishes with braces, they will need to wear a retainer for at least 23 hours a day, only removing it for meals or for oral hygiene purposes. This is because the teeth could potentially shift back to their previous position and need to be held in place to retain the results of treatment.

What kind of treatments are available besides metal braces?

During your consultation, we can help you explore orthodontic options that use transparent materials, including self-ligating braces, clear/ceramic braces, and Invisalign, which are specifically designed to be discreet.

What are my financing options?

We want to make the process of financing your treatments as simple and convenient as possible for you. We accept most dental insurance plans as well as Medicaid, but for patients without this coverage, third-party financing through CareCredit can be offered instead. Our team can file any necessary claims for you.

Can I expect any discomfort when wearing braces?

While you shouldn’t notice much discomfort while braces are being attached, some soreness and aches are to be expected once they’ve been in your mouth for a few days. If you have traditional braces, it’s normal to experience further soreness after periodic tightening appointments. That said, the discomfort is typically minor and brief, and you should be able to control it with an over-the-counter painkiller.

How long will the treatment last?

An orthodontic treatment can be as short as six months or as long as 30 months. The exact amount of time will be different for each patient depends on the type of treatment we’re using and the complexity of the case. We can give a more precise estimate after an exam.

Should I continue to see the dentist as normal?

Yes! Even while wearing braces, it’s essential to see your regular dentist at least once every six months for a checkup and dental cleaning. You need to maintain good oral health so that your treatment isn’t interrupted by cavities or gum disease. To that end, we’ll work alongside your dentist to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.