Orthodontics FAQs

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that addresses the improper positioning of the teeth and jaws, especially misalignment which can lead to various risks including but not limited to tooth decay, pain, and speech problems. Orthodontic treatment can effectively correct gaps between teeth, overbite, underbite, crossbite, teeth overcrowding, crooked teeth, and much more. 

An orthodontist is a trained medical specialist who has completed college, dental school, and orthodontic school–orthodontists complete a two to three year orthodontic residency program after dental school. An orthodontist diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental and facial irregularities by creating custom treatment plans for each patient. Did you know that 100% of orthodontists are dentists, but only 6% of dentists are orthodontists?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it is recommended that children first visit the orthodontist around age seven or eight to evaluate the growth of the jaw and potential bite problems. However, orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teens and there is no age limit for seeking a straight smile. In fact, about one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child or teen, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist and begin the process towards your perfect smile! 

The easiest way to schedule your initial consultation and/or regular appointments is to give us a call! Regular visits are an important part of the orthodontic treatment process in order to make adjustments and monitor your progress. Our team will work with you based on your schedule to make sure that your appointments are as convenient as possible. When scheduling appointments, please let us know what days and times work best for you and our friendly receptionists will assist you. 

Braces are a dental device used in orthodontics to align and straighten teeth. Braces put gentle pressure on your teeth and move them slowly in the correct direction. Braces are used to correct a variety of problems, including but not limited to overbites, underbites, teeth gaps, crooked teeth, and more.

Each individual orthodontic case is unique and the amount of total time spent wearing braces can vary depending on the patient. Most patients will need to wear braces for anywhere from 18 to 24 months, though more difficult cases may take longer.

Some mild pain or discomfort is normal while wearing braces, but you should only feel discomfort immediately after your orthodontist places or adjusts your braces or wires. This should last no longer than a few days to a week at most. If your braces are bothering you, we recommend taking pain relievers like Advil, eating soft foods, or icing your gums for 15 minutes. 

Most orthodontists do recommend brushing teeth after every meal (at least three times a day) in order to prevent the buildup of food and plaque in the mouth. It is important that, whatever your situation, you make sure to brush your teeth in the morning and at night before going to bed, as well as flossing daily to get in between the braces and teeth where your brush cannot reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to brush and floss effectively once your braces are in place. 

It is important that you continue to see your regular dentist every six months, even during orthodontic treatment, for routine dental checkups and teeth cleanings. If extra care is needed, we are happy to coordinate with your dentist to ensure you are receiving the best care possible.

You can of course continue your activities and extracurriculars while wearing braces, although you may need to take a few precautions to keep your braces and mouth safe. We do recommend wearing a mouth guard for protection during contact sports and it may require a little adjustment if you play an instrument like the trumpet or the flute, but it is perfectly safe to do so. 

Invisalign clear aligners are an advanced system of clear, removable aligners that gradually and effectively straighten your teeth without the need for the metal brackets or wires of traditional braces. They are made of advanced patented SmartTrack material, a flexible plastic which applies gentle, constant force to improve the control of tooth movements and straighten your teeth more predictably. 

Invisalign clear aligners are a popular choice for many reasons, including… 

• Virtually invisible
• Faster treatment
• Better fit
• Comfortable
• Proven results
• Convenient

When treated with Invisalign treatment by an experienced orthodontist, like Dr. Varone, a Diamond Plus provider, almost everyone can be treated with Invisalign for effective results! Invisalign clear aligners can be an effective solution for both adults and teens looking for a comfortable and nearly invisible method to achieve their perfect smile. 

Diamond Plus is the highest status that an orthodontist can earn and is Invisalign’s way of recognizing the top 1% of Invisalign providers in North America. It requires that an orthodontist complete at least 800 total cases and continues to perform 200 cases every 6 months (400 a year)! As a Diamond Plus provider, Dr. Varone is by far the most highly qualified orthodontist in her region to address almost every case, no matter how complex, using Invisalign clear aligners.