Common Orthodontic FAQs
Get answers to the most common orthodontic FAQs that we hear from patients like you across Central Arkansas.
Don’t see your question below? Feel free to give the friendly, knowledgable Daniel & Jones Orthodontics team a call at (501) 223-8442, and we’ll be happy to help you out.
Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a special form of dentistry focused on preventing, diagnosing and treating dental and facial abnormalities.
Orthodontists (like Dr. Daniel, Dr. Jones, and Dr. Walker) can straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the actual function of your smile.
Truly, any age is a great age to see an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven. This allows us time to get ahead of any developmental issues while the child is still growing.
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, the Daniel & Jones Orthodontics team is excited to take on the case.
ALWAYS 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 Dr. Daniel, Dr. Jones, Dr. Walker, or your family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and 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.
During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which 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.). Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.
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:
- Traditional metal braces
- Clear/ceramic braces
- Invisalign©
Everyone is unique, so the amount of time spent in braces varies depending on the individual patient.
Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but the estimated average is about 22 months.
Braces usually don’t hurt. 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.
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. Dr. Daniel, Dr. Jones, or Dr. Walker can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.
Yes! Once you have braces, it's more important than ever that you visit your dentist regularly. 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 Daniel & Jones Orthodontics 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, we recommend that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.
Simply call our practice! The Daniel & Jones Orthodontics 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 Daniel & Jones Orthodontics, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need to begin your smile transformation!