Orthodontic FAQs

Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose and treat problems with the position, alignment or spacing of the teeth, and related irregularities in the face and the jaw. We use a number of special treatments, including braces and other oral appliances, to correct these problems.

There are two good reasons for beginning orthodontic treatment: aesthetics and function. Having an attractive smile not only changes the way people see you - it enhances your own self-image as well! Orthodontic treatment also allows your teeth to function better and makes it easier to keep them clean, which can improve your overall health.

You're never too old to begin orthodontic treatment, and we treat patients of all ages. The American Association of Orthodontists and our doctors recommend that a child should come in for their first visit around age seven.

Few of our young patients will need to begin treatment right away, but there are some who will benefit from early intervention. Orthodontic treatment can also be highly successful in adults, as the physiological process of moving teeth is the same in adults as it is in children.

Teeth that are protruding, crowded together or erupting out of position are clear indications that treatment is needed. Less obvious signs are mouth breathing, frequent biting of the cheek or palate, speech difficulties, and thumb sucking that goes past three or four years of age.

If teeth do not meet properly when the mouth closes, or if jaws make sounds or shift as they move, this may also indicate an orthodontic problem.

Having braces put on is generally painless. Some people experience minor aches and pains in the first couple of days or so as they adjust to wearing their appliances and periodic adjustments may sometimes cause soreness as well.

However, it typically lasts only a short time. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to alleviate any discomfort, but are usually unnecessary.

This is different for each person, but generally, the active stage of treatment (that is, wearing braces or other appliances) may take from 6-30 months. After that, a retainer is worn to maintain your beautiful results.

This depends on what's being done and how often your orthodontist determines you need to be monitored. During the active phase of treatment, you'll typically come into our Clinton or Madison office once every 4 to 10 weeks.

If your teeth are severely crowded (because your mouth is too small to properly accommodate all of them) or if you have impacted teeth (teeth that are trapped beneath the gum line by other teeth), then extraction may be necessary. In the case of younger patients, early treatment can make extraction unnecessary.

Yes - you should pass up the types of foods that could damage or become trapped in your braces.

Some of these include raw vegetables, hard candy, caramel, taffy and ice cubes (fortunately, ice cream is OK). We will give you a list of foods to avoid when your braces are applied.

In a word: Yes! Of course, whether you wear braces or not, we recommend you wear a mouthguard when playing most sports. Musicians are generally able to play their instruments just as they did before, but they may need a short adjustment period after getting braces.

You do - in fact, it's more important than ever! Keeping your teeth free of plaque (and potentially decay) can be challenging when you're wearing braces.

Your dentist can help you avoid these problems with frequent cleanings and exams.

Almost always, the answer is yes! If you don't wear a retainer as directed by Dr. Moffet or Dr. Walley, your teeth can rapidly shift out of position - and then all the effort put into your treatment is lost! Your retainer helps you maintain that good-looking smile for a lifetime.

Orthodontic care is a long-term investment in your health and well-being. Yet its cost hasn't increased as fast as many other consumer prices, and many financing options are available that make orthodontic care affordable.

Weighed against the true cost of living with problem teeth, orthodontic treatment can be a wise investment indeed.