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Orthodontic FAQs

At Dr. Paul J. Styrt, Specialists in Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we love talking about orthodontics and the latest in teeth straightening treatments.

Here are some answers to a few of the most common questions we get asked about orthodontics and braces at our office in La Jolla.

Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two-to-three years of additional training after dental school in an ADA-certified orthodontic specialty program at a university-approved orthodontic residency program. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

Braces are used by your orthodontist to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:

  • Clear braces
  • Ceramic braces
  • Gold braces
  • Lingual braces
  • Self-ligating braces
  • Invisible braces
  • Traditional metal braces

The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.

Braces do not often hurt, though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies for each patient because it depends on how major (or minor) your treatment needs are, the best appliance for you, and how long your treatment will take. At your free consultation we will provide you with a customized treatment plan that includes a specific quote for your treatment. More information about our fees and payment plans is available on our cost and finance page.

Try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities). Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes) or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).

Yes, and you must remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day. Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!

With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn't able to reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.

Yes! In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance. We also offer Invisalign for teens and these aligners can be removed for playing sport and musical instruments, which makes life much easier!

Yes, we are a certified Invisalign provider and offer all types of Invisalign treatment, with great results. You can find out more about our Invisalign offerings in our Invisalign section and on our Invisalign FAQs page.

If you’re wearing a removable retainer, take it out to eat, brush and floss. Remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken. Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all the information you need.

Book a free consultation at Dr. Paul J. Styrt, Specialists in Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry today to find out more.