Frequently asked questions

1. Can orthodontics be done without removing teeth?

Yes, in many cases orthodontic treatment can be completed without removing permanent teeth. At BF Orthodontics, we focus on creating space rather than removing teeth. Using techniques like expansion and growth guidance, we can often improve alignment, develop the jaws properly, and maintain facial fullness and smile width. Each patient is unique, but our goal is always expansion over extraction whenever possible. Contact our office to connect with orthodontic specialists in the Fort Worth area and start your orthodontic treatment.

2. What is airway orthodontics?

Airway orthodontics looks at how the position and size of the jaws affect breathing, tongue posture, and sleep quality. Proper jaw development can support better breathing, reduce mouth breathing, and improve overall health, which is why it’s so important for growing patients.

3. Are aligners effective for kids?

Yes, aligners can be very effective for children, even in complex cases as aligners allow us to create space for erupting teeth, guide proper jaw development and positions, and treat crowding and bite issues. At BF family orthodontics in the Fort Worth area, we use aligners to correct mild-to-moderate alignment issues, and also to treat growing patients and more advanced cases.

4. How does Dental Monitoring work?

Dental monitoring allows us to check your progress remotely using your phone. Patients send weekly scans that we use to monitor tooth movement, check oral hygiene, and ensure aligners are fitting properly. Dental monitoring virtually means fewer office visits for patients and more convenience for busy families.

5. Why do some orthodontist experts in the Fort Worth area recommend extractions?

Extractions are sometimes recommended when severe crowding or limited space are present. However, at BF Orthodontics, our philosophy is to avoid extractions whenever possible while still achieving a healthy, stable result.

6. What happens if a child has a narrow palate?

A narrow palate can lead to crowding, crossbites, incorrect tongue positioning, and reduced nasal airflow, so it should be treated right away. When the palate is too narrow, an expansion to widen the jaw should improve alignment and support better breathing.

7. Can orthodontics help with mouth breathing?

In some cases, yes—orthodontic treatment can help support better nasal breathing. Generally, we will evaluate each patient to determine if expanding the upper jaw and creating space for the tongue may help relieve some of the symptoms of mouth breathing.

8. How often do you need visits with aligners?

With Dental Monitoring, patients are typically seen in-office much less frequently. In fact, instead of monthly visits, many patients check in virtually each week and come in every few months. This saves time while still maintaining excellent results.

9. What is the difference between braces and aligners?

Both braces and aligners straighten teeth, but they work differently. Braces are a series of attachments on the teeth connected by wires that are tightened and adjusted to move the teeth while aligners are shaped to fit over the teeth, using gentle pressure and new aligners every two weeks to move the teeth. Depending on your situation, braces or aligners might be better suited to deliver the results you want. At BF Orthodontics, we will help you choose the best option for your specific needs.

10. Can expansion prevent future dental problems?

In many cases, early expansion can reduce the need for more complex treatment later as it reduces crowding, improves bit development, and supports healthier jaw growth. This can lead to simpler and more stable long-term outcomes. Call us today if you’re ready to connect to the best orthodontist near me.