The 10 Most Commonly Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment
At Birth & Fletcher, we can provide a variety of options for orthodontic treatment in the Fort Worth area. Our team can assess the condition and alignment of your teeth to determine the best ways to address misalignments of your teeth. Left untreated, these issues can affect your ability to bite and chew and can reduce your confidence in social and professional situations. Straightening your teeth now can have a positive effect on your appearance and your self-confidence.
What Are Braces?
Braces usually consist of brackets and wires that are attached directly to your teeth. The wires are strung through the brackets and are tightened gradually to move your teeth into the right position. This allows you to enjoy straighter and more attractive teeth when your treatment is complete.
Are There Different Types of Braces?
Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and metal wires. You can also choose ceramic braces that are less obvious and that are usually matched to the color of your teeth. For patients at Birth & Fletcher who want the most natural look while straightening their teeth, lingual braces are connected to the backs of teeth and pull the teeth into place over time.
What Other Orthodontic Treatments Are Available?
Invisalign® and other clear aligners are among the most popular options for our patients in the Fort Worth area. Rather than brackets and wires, clear aligner trays are easily removable. Patients go through a series of aligner trays, each designed to produce more progress in moving the teeth into a straighter and more attractive position. Once your teeth are in the proper alignment, you may need to wear a removable retainer for a few hours each day to maintain your progress.
Can Older People Get Braces?
Traditional braces and other orthodontic treatments are often associated with adolescents and young adults. Braces, however, are a practical option for straightening teeth at any age. Many of our orthodontic patients at Birth & Fletcher are older adults who are interested in improving their appearance and the quality of their bite.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
Orthodontic treatments vary in cost depending on the length of treatment, the type of orthodontic solution you choose, and the amount of correction you require. At Birth & Fletcher, we can provide you with an estimate of the cost of your orthodontic treatment to help you manage the financial aspects of your care with us.
Will My Orthodontic Treatment Take a Long Time?
As with cost, the length of time needed to straighten your teeth will vary from patient to patient. The orthodontic team at Birth & Fletcher can provide you with an idea of how long your treatment will take during your initial consultation.
How Do I Take Care of My Braces?
Your dentist will explain how to brush and floss your teeth while wearing braces. For clear aligner trays and retainers, you can simply remove these orthodontic appliances and brush and floss normally between visits to our office. You will also need regular teeth cleaning visits to ensure that your teeth stay healthy during your treatment.
Do Braces Hurt to Wear?
Some discomfort immediately after your braces have been applied or adjusted is normal. If you experience severe pain or damage to your braces, however, call Birth & Fletcher right away at to schedule an appointment with your orthodontic team. We can recommend pain relief options or can adjust your braces to prevent pain in the future.
Will Braces Affect my Daily Routine?
For most patients, braces do not have any impact on daily activities. If you play contact sports, however, you should invest in a mouth guard to prevent damage to your braces or to your teeth. Our dental team can provide you with dental guards designed to prevent injuries and damage that could affect the progress of your orthodontic treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Straightening My Teeth?
A straight and even smile can help you to feel more confident when meeting new people or interacting with old friends. Straight teeth are also critical to biting and chewing properly. By investing in orthodontic treatment, you can enjoy a lifetime of more beautiful smiles and an improved bite to help you look and feel your very best every day. The dentists at Birth & Fletcher are here to assist you in finding the right orthodontic treatment for your specific set of needs.
To learn more about the orthodontic services we offer at Birth & Fletcher, call us at to schedule a consultation in the Fort Worth area. We can design a treatment plan for you or any other member of your family. At Birth & Fletcher, our dentists and orthodontists offer affordable orthodontic services designed with your needs and your budget in mind.
