Frequently asked questions:

Q: Do braces hurt?
A: As a rule, braces do not hurt. Usually after an adjustment, your teeth will be sore for a day or two. This discomfort is relieved with an over-the-counter pain reliever if necessary. The aching will be exaggerated when the brace is first fitted and may last a few days - this is due to the initial loosening of the teeth.

Q: How long will treatment take?
A: Treatment time obviously depends upon your original problems. However, today we have many techniques and materials which will safely move your teeth with less discomfort in a shorter time. The average is between 18-24 months although we can sometimes shorten this. 

Q: Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment?
A: Yes. Even after the best orthodontic treatment, teeth will have a tendency to move slightly. A retainer is the best way to minimize this movement.

Q: Are braces noticeable?
A: Braces were very noticeable when they completely covered the teeth. Today, most of the braces are bonded to the front of the teeth thereby limiting the amount of metal on each tooth. It is also possible to have ceramic braces which blend in with your natural tooth colour,  braces which fit and work from behind the teeth (lingual  braces), or even totally clear  metal and wire free Invisalign braces. These special braces and appliances are available privately. Click here for more details.

Q: As an adult, am I too old for braces?
A: No.  You are never too old for braces. We provide orthodontic care for many adults of all ages, either because they missed out on treatment earlier, didn't wear retainers after their first treatment, or have just found their teeth becoming increasingly crowded as they get older.

Q: Will my speech be affected by braces?
A: For the first day or two after you get your braces you will be aware of something new in your mouth. . Soon, however, they will become part of you and you will not have a problem with speech. Click here for more details.

Q: Will I need to have teeth removed for braces?
A: Removal of teeth is sometimes necessary for an orthodontic correction. However, with increasingly modern techniques, the need for removing teeth is greatly reduced. We can assure you that we never remove teeth unless it is both necessary and in the patient's best long-term interest. Click here for more details.

Q: Can I still have braces even though I have crowns and bridges?
A: Yes, you can still have braces with crowns or bridges. Orthodontic treatment will help align your natural teeth correctly, so that bridges and crowns can be properly placed. We can also work around existing restorations.

Q: Will braces leave marks on my teeth?
A: No. The bonding agents used today contain fluoride so the teeth are protected underneath the brace. However, if your oral hygiene/teeth cleaning routine is poor, the accumulation of plaque can result in the formation of marks on the teeth. Eating sugary foods and drinking fizzy drinks greatly increases this risk.

Q: What is the best age to begin treatment?
A: The age of treatment varies with the patient's needs. We do not put braces on every patient who visits us. If a patient is not ready for treatment, we will follow that patient at no charge until the time for treatment is right. Click here for more details.

Q. Why do I need braces if my teeth are straight?
A. The goal of orthodontic treatment is more than straight teeth. The most important part of your smile is a good bite. Even though your teeth may be straight, your bite may be incorrect  and need re aligning for optimum health. Click here for more details.

Q: Can I still have braces if I have some teeth missing?
A: Absolutely! Often when teeth are missing, adjacent teeth will drift into the empty space causing a periodontal (gum), aesthetic (appearance) or functional (eating) problem. Orthodontic treatment will correct and prevent this from happening and also provide the proper alignment for your dentist to replace the missing teeth if you so choose.