Orthodontics FAQ
Q: What causes most orthodontic problems?
A: Many orthodontic issues are inherited—like crowding, spacing, protrusion, extra or missing teeth, and some jaw-growth problems.
Q: Can orthodontic problems be acquired after birth?
A: Yes. Habits like thumb- or finger-sucking, dental disease, accidents, or premature/late loss of baby teeth can cause malocclusion (misaligned teeth/bite).
Q: Why is it important to fix crooked teeth or a bad bite?
A:
Harder to clean, increasing risk of decay or gum disease
May cause abnormal wear or abrasion of teeth
Can lead to difficulty chewing or speaking
May place excess stress on bone and gums
Problems often worsen over time and may require more complex treatment later
Q: Who is an orthodontist?
A: An orthodontist is a dental specialist with an extra 3 years of training after dental school, focused entirely on diagnosing and treating dental/facial irregularities. Only those with this training can officially use the title “Orthodontist.”
Q: When should children have their first orthodontic check‑up?
A: The AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, when issues like emerging teeth or jaw-growth problems can be identified early.
Q: When does orthodontic treatment usually begin?
A: Most active treatments start between ages 9 and 13.
Q: Can adults get orthodontic treatment?
A: Absolutely! About 20% of orthodontic patients are over age 18. Modern appliances are more discreet and comfortable, making adult treatment more appealing—and more common than ever.
Q: What is expected of me during orthodontic treatment?
A: Success depends on a strong partnership. The orthodontist provides custom appliances, and you must:
Follow their usage instructions,
Attend scheduled appointments,
Maintain good oral hygiene.
Q: What kinds of braces and aligners are available?
A:
Traditional metal braces
Ceramic (clear) braces
Invisible braces / clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign)
Lingual braces (placed behind the teeth)
Q: How long does orthodontic treatment take?
A:
Children (standard cases): ~22 months average
Adults (limited treatment): as little as 3–6 months
Complex cases: up to ~30 months
Treatment time varies greatly depending on individual dental conditions.
Q: How is the cost of orthodontics determined?
A: It depends on:
Severity of the condition
Complexity of the required movements
Duration of treatment
Q: Can I finance my treatment?
A: Yes. Orthodontists typically discuss cost and financing options before starting treatment.
Specialties
Other Orthodontics Services
