Orthodontics FAQ

The doctors and orthodontic experts at Utah Orthodontic Care are focused on providing our patients with the best possible care. To do that successfully, we want to make sure that you understand the treatment options available to you, and that all of your orthodontics questions are answered. Below you’ll find a list of frequently asked questions about our affordable braces and the other affordable orthodontic treatment options we provide. Additionally, check out our Pinterest board and discover some of our favorite fun facts about teeth!

It’s important to remember that these are general facts, questions, and answers to common topics. To diagnose and create a treatment plan specific to you, we recommend a free consultation with one of our highly skilled doctors at any one of our convenient Wasatch Front locations.

When should I get braces?

After consulting with your doctor and determining the right treatment plan, you can get braces at nearly any age. While the right time for many of our patients to start braces treatment is early adolescence, we have a growing number of adults who seek orthodontic treatment as well. Some of the most common orthodontic problems that may require intervention include crowded or overlapping teeth, difficulty chewing, gaps or spaces between teeth, the presence of an underbite or deep bite (when the majority of the lower teeth are covered by the upper front teeth), excessive teeth wearing or grinding, and misalignment of the jaw.

The average time it takes for orthodontic treatment to finish is one to two years, but every case is unique and may be shorter or longer than the average. Attending regular appointments as well as maintaining proper oral hygiene will help to keep the treatment plan on schedule.

There is no pain whatsoever when braces are put on, but there may be some discomfort or soreness in the following days. Additionally, you could experience some discomfort immediately following your regular appointments after the braces are adjusted. Over-the-counter medications are helpful for pain relief, but please consult your doctor before taking anything else.

Thanks to today’s advances in orthodontic technology, there are numerous options that you can choose from. At Utah Orthodontic Care, we provide traditional metal braces as well as clear, ceramic braces and Invisalign clear aligners. Our orthodontic experts will help you choose which option is best for you.

Braces do require some getting used to, but they will not seriously alter your way of life. You can play any sport you want, but it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard. Overall, musical instrument play will not be changed, but there may be a short initial period of adjustment.

Most food is completely fine to eat. However, there are foods you should avoid, including ice, hard candy, and all sticky foods. Visit our Pinterest board for many fun, braces-friendly recipes!

Yes! Utah Orthodontic Care recommends that you schedule an appointment to see your regular dentist for teeth cleanings and dental checkups every six months. This is actually more important during orthodontic treatment, as braces can make your teeth more difficult to clean.

Yes. Your orthodontic treatment is not over on the day you get your braces removed. You will need to wear a retainer to ensure that the progress made during treatment doesn’t reverse. How long you’ll have to wear the retainer depends on how well you’re attending regular appointments and the length of your treatment.

Utah Orthodontic Care Answers Your Questions!

We hope this answers a few of the questions that you may have about beginning your braces or aligner treatment with Utah Orthodontic Care. If you are ready to get that new, confident smile you deserve, schedule your free consultation today! We offer in-house financing and low monthly payments to make braces affordable for everyone.

If you have more questions, reach out to the nearest UOC location and we’ll be happy to help you get the answers you are looking for or give us a call.