Have Questions?

FAQ

The doctors and orthodontic experts at Utah Orthodontic Care are focused on serving our patients of the Salt Lake City region. To do that successfully, we want to make sure that you understand the treatment options available to you and that all of your questions are answered. Below you’ll find a list of frequently asked questions about our affordable braces and the other different kinds of affordable orthodontic treatment 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 truly diagnose and create a treatment plan specific to you, we advise scheduling a free consultation with one of our highly skilled, personable doctors at any one of our convenient locations.

Contact Utah Orthodontic Care For All Of 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. But, if you have further questions, we are all here to help. Reach out to the nearest UOC location and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have. You can call us at (801) 999-4431. Or, you can contact us via email using our online form. If you are ready to take the step towards that new, confident smile you deserve, call and set up your free consultation today! We offer orthodontic financing and create low monthly payments to make your braces affordable for your family. Call today!

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.

How long will my treatment last?

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.

Are my braces going to hurt?

There is no pain whatsoever when braces are put on, but there may be some discomfort or soreness in the following days after placement. Additionally, you could experience some discomfort immediately following your regular appointments after the braces are tightened. There are over-the-counter medications that are available for pain relief according to the directions on the bottle, but please consult your doctor before taking anything else.

What are other options for straight teeth besides metal braces?

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

Will braces interfere with playing sports/playing musical instruments/which foods I can eat?

Braces do require some getting used to, but they will not seriously alter your way of life while they’re on. 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. In regards to eating, most food is completely fine to eat. However, there are some foods you should avoid, including ice, hard candy, and all sticky foods. Visit our Pinterest board for many fun, braces-friendly recipes!

Should I keep seeing my general dentist while I have braces?

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

Once I get my braces off, do I have to wear a retainer?

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 relapse. How long you’ll have to wear the retainer depends on how well you’re attending regular appointments and the length of your treatment. Your doctor will have a specific instruction set for you to follow.