Frequently Asked Questions
Question: I just had my braces off. What are the white or stained marks around where the braces were?
Dr. Pershad: If you didn’t clean all the “plaque” off your teeth after each time you ate something you can get decalcification (white marks – early stage of cavities) or actual cavities (darker stained areas or holes in the enamel). When you eat something, the bacteria also get fed, and when they eat, they produce acids for at least 90 minutes – this acid attacks your enamel and causes the marks (whitish acid burns) that can become cavities. It also Causes gum inflammation (gingivitis). See the animation below (please note that the area protected by the brace does not show damage – the glue we use seals and prevents cavities underneath the braces – we cannot seal the whole tooth unfortunately!)
Click Here! To download or print The Decalcification Doc.
Question: What is the best age to start braces?
Dr. Pershad:The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.
Why Your Child Should Get An Orthodontic Check-up No Later Than Age 7:
1. Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some
baby teeth are still present.
2. While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an
orthodontist can detect.
3. The check-up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine. Or, the orthodontist may identify a developing problem but recommend monitoring the child’s growth and development, and then, if indicated, begin treatment at the appropriate time for the child. In other cases, the orthodontist might find a problem that can benefit from early treatment.
4. Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.
5. In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.
6. Early treatment may give your orthodontist the chance to:
- guide jaw growth
- lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
- correct harmful oral habits
- improve appearance
- guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
- improve the way lips meet
7. Through an early orthodontic evaluation, you’ll be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Because patients differ in both physiological development and treatment needs, the orthodontist’s goal is to provide each patient with the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time. “Courtesy American Association of Orthodontists”
Question: Do I need to Wear Retainers?
Dr. Pershad: A retainer is designed to keep your teeth where your braces moved them. If you’re wearing retainers after braces and you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions your teeth could move toward the original positions, erasing some of the great results you achieved from treatment. “Courtesy American Association of Orthodontists”