Orthodontic FAQs

How long do braces have to be worn?

The total treatment times with braces usually lasts from 9 months to 5 years, but the average amount of time is 18 to 24 months.

How Can I tell if my child needs orthodontic treatment?

It is usually difficult to know if your child will need orthodontic treatment until your child is 8-12 and their permanent teeth start to come in. Generally, the orthodontist will evaluate your child, and if your child needs treatment, the orthodontist will take corrective action to avoid costly and painful treatment later on.

Can I eat with braces?

Yes! You can eat most of the good things that you can eat now. The only issue is that your mouth will be sore after you first get braces, so for the first week or so you may only want to eat softer foods. However, after that you should be able to eat normally.

Will I still be able to talk when I have braces?

Yes, standard braces should not affect how you talk or the sound of your voice.
In certain cases, the orthodontist may need to use an appliance that could get in the way of your tongue. You could experience trouble talking clearly for a day or two, but then your tongue will adjust and you’ll be able to talk just fine.

Do Braces Hurt?

It depends on the type of braces you use. Traditional braces will hurt many times. However, if you have modern braces, it is possible to have slight discomfort when they are first put on, and a day or two after adjustments.

Will braces cause sores in my mouth?

When you get braces, your mouth can be sore for a few days. Also, your mouth could be sore when the braces are adjusted. However, with modern braces, you really shouldn’t notice them, except when the braces are tightened.
When you first get braces, you could experience some sores in your mouth. If you rinse the sores in warm, salt water, they will heal within a week or two. If your mouth is sore during the first week, you can put wax on the braces to prevent the braces from rubbing and irritating your skin.

Can I do anything else to reduce the pain?

Drs. Gemmi and Middleberg suggest using over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol, Advil, or Ibuprofen to reduce any pain.

Can I eat with braces?

Yes! You can eat most of the good things that you can eat now. The only issue is that your mouth will be sore after you first get braces, so for the first week or so you may only want to eat softer foods. However, after that you should be able to eat normally.

Is there anything else that I can’t eat?

You probably should not eat hard sticky, gooey or crunchy foods. Caramel, taffy, peanut brittle can stick on your braces and pull the braces off your teeth. You also need to be careful with crunchy foods like carrots and apples and hard rolls so that you do not knock your braces off your teeth.

Find out more about tooth care at the Home Care section of our website.