Questions About Orthodontics

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends having an orthodontic exam by age 7 to baseline dental development and screen for indicators of future problems. Dr. Vahab has a conservative approach and recommends starting orthodontics when all the adult teeth have erupted (11-13 years old) whenever possible. “Early” treatment between 8-10 years old is reserved for severe space deficiencies and other problems that cannot be corrected later. 

Orthodontics is not limited to children and teens. One in five orthodontic patients is above the age of 21. So it’s never too late to get the smile you have always wanted.

Dr. Vahab practices with a conservative philosophy regarding when to initiate “Early” or “Phase I” braces and only recommends it when it is absolutely necessary. Most children start orthodontics when all the adult teeth have erupted (average age 11-13). However, some kids can develop specific problems that are best treated early (age 8-10). During this developmental period, there is still a mixture of adult and baby teeth, and the bones are still growing. Cross-bites, open-bites, narrow jaws, jaw growth discrepancies, space deficiencies, under-bites, “bucked” or deep overbites, and asymmetric bites are examples of conditions that can be more difficult or impossible to treat if the “Early” or “Phase I” window is missed.

Tooth movement is a natural physiologic response to light pressure applied to a tooth over time. The bone and gums surrounding the teeth slowly remodel, allowing the teeth to straighten. The applied force is from soft, flexible wires or Invisalign plastic aligners. Most orthodontic appointments are scheduled 4 to 6 weeks apart to give the teeth time to move before the next adjustment.

 It does not hurt to put braces on. However, for the first few days, you may feel mild to moderate tenderness and aching of your teeth. This discomfort will not affect your day-to-day experience, and you can continue to go to work, school, or social events as normal.

Yes! Dr. Vahab was a trumpet player in high school, so we love musicians in our office. Invisalign is always the best choice for serious musicians because the aligners can be removed while playing. You can certainly play with traditional braces; however, it may take some adjusting, so practice, practice, practice!

Sporting Smiles is our name, and we love sporty kids! Dr. Vahab recommends using a mouthguard to protect your teeth and jaws from injuries. Dr. Vahab will assist in helping you choose the best customizable mouthguard for you. He will also adjust them, so they do not interfere with your braces.

Orthodontic specialists have 2-3 years of advanced clinical and academic training after becoming a dentist. They specialize in aligning teeth and jaws, establishing healthy bites, and improving the function of your smile.

Orthodontics can range from 6-36 months. The average treatment time for a realignment of the “occlusion” or bite is 18-20 months. However, if the bite is already in good function, a dramatic aesthetic improvement of the front teeth can be achieved in 6-12 months.

Yes. It is recommended that you continue your regular hygiene visits every six months. This is very important to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy during treatment.

There is no age limit for achieving the smile you always wanted. I see a lot of patients that come in for a consultation and say “I have been wanting straight teeth my whole life!”

When in braces, brushing 3x per day for a full two minutes and flossing once per day is all you need to keep your teeth healthy. Electric brushes and Waterpiks are great, but they are not required. We will evaluate your hygiene at each visit to make sure you are brushing correctly and to help keep you on track.