FAQ'S


Q. Why should I wear braces?
A.The obvious reason is to improve your smile. Also to correct improper alignment of teeth that can lead to gum disease and early tooth loss. Plus, straight teeth can eliminate uneven chewing that leads to headaches and pain.

Q. When should I visit the orthodontist?
A. Children should see an orthodontist usually between the ages of 8-10. Adults can visit an orthodontist any time even if you’ve had braces before.

Q. How long will my orthodontic treatment last?
A. Expect your treatment to last from 18 to 34 months depending on your individual needs. If you keep your maintenance appointments, care for your braces and practice good oral hygiene, you stand a better chance of completing the treatment early.

Q. What can I expect on my first visit?
A. At your complimentary initial visit you can meet our staff and ask any questions. From there, we’ll determine a course of treatment and an estimate of the treatment duration. If we find that treatment is necessary, we’ll take the required x-rays, and make an appointment for your fitting.

Q. What kind of braces are available?
A. Today braces are a fashion statement, so you can be as traditional or hip as you want to be. Go traditional metal, colored, gold or clear, the options are endless.

Q. How long do the braces take to apply?
A. It depends on the case, but usually two to two-and-a-half hours. 

Q. Will my braces hurt?
A. Your mouth is usually sore the first week after you get braces and of course, when they’re tightened. Modern, cast, low profile brackets are designed to minimize your pain between visits to Dr. Jaffer’s office.

Q. What happens if the pain doesn’t go away?
A. Talk to Dr. Jaffer. It could be an inflammation from an allergic reaction to something in the braces, or improper brushing. Either way, a consultation with Dr. Jaffer can help.

Q. Do I need to do anything special the first week or so?
A. Yes, while you’re getting used to the braces eat softer foods. Your gums and teeth will appreciate it.  Also be extra careful when it comes to your mouth because it will be tender.

Q. Will braces cause sores?
A. They may at first. Just rinse the sores in warm salt water and they’ll heal within a week or two.

Q. Can I play sports?
A. Absolutely! Just wear an orthodontic mouth guard for protection.

Q. Can I still chew gum with braces?
A. Gum is really not a good idea because it sticks to your braces and the sugar gets trapped and can cause cavities. If you can’t live without gum, ask Dr. Jaffer if non-stick, sugar free gum is an option for you.

Q. What other foods should I avoid?
A. Stay away from hard, sticky, gooey or crunchy foods. If food is too hard to chew it could cause a bracket to come off.

Q. What happens if a bracket comes off?
A. Dr. Jaffer will attach another bracket. However, every time Dr. Jaffer has to replace a bracket, it delays the orthodontic treatment.

Q. Do I need to brush more with braces?
A. Continue to brush and floss after every meal and before you go to bed. Flossing is especially important to avoid trapped food. You should also brush with a fluoride gel in a further attempt to avoid cavities.

Q. Why do some people wear rubber bands?
A. The rubber bands are used to move teeth forward or back in your mouth. The rubber bands are often used in the final stages of the orthodontic treatment.

Q. What happens if I don’t wear the rubber bands when advised?
A. The orthodontic treatment will take up to a year longer and can be more painful.

Q. Will I need to wear a retainer?
A. Yes! Retainers keep your teeth straight after the braces come off. Without them your teeth will move and the entire treatment could be jeopardized.