Orthodontic Services in Tampa

How Can I Get Braces?

If you have orthodontic problems and have always wanted straight teeth, scheduling an appointment at our office is the first step to take. During your initial consultation, our braces dentist will listen to your concerns and utilize a variety of methods to design a treatment plan that works best for you. In addition to closely examining your teeth and mouth, your dentist may also take x-rays and make an impression of your teeth to see how they are currently positioned.

Facts About Getting Braces

Whether you are receiving ceramic or metal, the steps involved in putting braces on remains the same. First, your dentist or orthodontist will clean and dry your teeth. During the next step, a special glue is applied to your teeth and then the brackets are attached. While the glue may not have a pleasant taste, it’s completely harmless to have in your mouth. Finally, archwires are placed onto the brackets and everything is secured with elastic bands.

What Are Common Types of Braces?

With all of the recent advances in orthodontics, there are more options available for you to choose from. Traditional metal braces are very common in our clinic, and they consist of brackets and wires that are placed on your teeth. You can also choose ceramic braces, which are similar in size and shape to the traditional ones, but they are white or clear in appearance. This allows them to look very similar in color to your teeth so they are less noticeable.

For invisible braces, one option is a set of clear aligners that gently guide your teeth into a different position. These can be removed whenever you eat or drink.

What Is the Average Price for Braces?

Now that you know about how braces are put on and the different types available, you might be wondering, “How much do braces cost?” Your total cost depends on the type of braces recommended by your dentist, how long you will need to wear them, and the coverage provided by your dental insurance.

How Long Does It Take to Get Them?

The appointment to get your braces put on takes about one to two hours. It’s very common to experience soreness after the procedure, but taking an over-the-counter pain reliever should help alleviate any discomfort. You should call our office if your pain isn’t relieved within a week. On average, most of our patients wear their braces for less than two years.

Is It Mandatory to Wear a Retainer After Braces?

Your appointment to have your braces taken off will take about an hour. Once they have been taken off, wearing a retainer is an important step in keeping your teeth straight and maintaining the results achieved through orthodontic treatment. You will usually wear this oral appliance at night, which works by holding your teeth in their new position and preventing them from shifting out of alignment. We often recommend that you wear a retainer for several years to support the new position of your teeth.