Orthodontic FAQs
Friendly, straightforward answers to the questions we hear most, from the best age to start to caring for your braces. Don’t see your question? Give us a call; we’re always happy to help.
Orthodontic FAQs:
The Basics
What orthodontists do, and when to come see one.
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of bite and facial abnormalities.
Who is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
Every orthodontist is a dentist first. After dental school, an orthodontist completes two to three more years of full-time specialty training focused only on moving teeth and guiding jaw growth. Your family dentist cares for the overall health of your teeth and gums, while an orthodontist straightens teeth and corrects bites. The two work together throughout your treatment.
What does board certified mean?
Every orthodontist completes specialty training after dental school. Board certification goes further: it requires passing rigorous written and clinical examinations and presenting documented patient results to the American Board of Orthodontics. It’s a voluntary commitment to the highest standard of the specialty.
Dr. Costalos is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. Learn more about Dr. Costalos.
What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, any age can be a great age to see an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist by age 7. However, orthodontic treatment isn’t just for children and teens: about one in five orthodontic patients is an adult. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or your child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.
About Braces
How braces work, how long they take, and how they compare with aligners.
What are braces?
Braces are small brackets bonded to the front of your teeth, connected by a thin archwire. The wire applies gentle, steady pressure that guides your teeth into healthier positions over time, improving both the look and the feel of your smile. Learn more about braces.
If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?
Time in braces varies from patient to patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment can take anywhere from 6 to 30 months, but most standard treatment takes about 18 months.
Do braces hurt?
Braces rarely hurt. You may feel a little discomfort for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.
Braces or aligners: which is right for me?
It depends on your bite and your lifestyle. Clear aligners are discreet and removable but need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day. Braces work around the clock and can handle more complex tooth movements. Dr. Costalos will explain the pros and cons for your specific case and give you an honest recommendation. Compare braces and clear aligners.
Can I get braces if I have crowns, implants, or missing teeth?
Yes. Brackets can be attached to most crowns, and aligners work well around many restorations. Implants can’t be moved, but we can plan around them, and sometimes even use them as anchors.
Living with Braces
Brushing, eating, activities, and what to do if something breaks.
How can I take care of my teeth if I'm wearing braces or a retainer?
- Brush your teeth right after every meal and especially before bed, at least two times a day, and use a Waterpik or floss at least once a day.
- Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste, and rinse twice a day with an alcohol-free mouthwash.
- If you take out your retainer to eat, brush your teeth, floss, and keep your retainer safe in its case so it doesn’t get lost or broken.
- Keep your retainer clean by brushing it gently with a toothbrush. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
- During treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increase the bacteria in your mouth and can lead to plaque and cavities.
- Avoid sticky foods (caramel, licorice, taffy, gummy candy, chewing gum), hard foods (nuts, hard candy, pretzels, chips, ice, hard bagels), and foods you bite into (corn on the cob, whole apples, whole carrots, ribs).
- Keep scheduling routine check-ups with your family dentist every six months.
See our braces care guide for step-by-step tips.
Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?
With braces, brush your teeth right after every meal and especially before bed, at least two times a day, to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly helps remove any food caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to clean between your braces where your brush can’t reach. Our team will show you how to brush and floss properly once your braces are placed.
Will my braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?
Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.
If I have braces, do I still need dental check-ups every six months?
Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with the orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
What if a bracket breaks?
Don’t worry; this is rarely an emergency. If the bracket comes off easily, remove it and save it. Otherwise, cover it with orthodontic wax. Then call us at (718) 238-9888 so we can schedule a quick repair. Our Patient Care page has step-by-step tips.
Can I whiten my teeth during treatment?
It’s best to wait until your braces come off. Whitening with brackets on can leave lighter and darker patches where the brackets sit. If you wear clear aligners, ask Dr. Costalos before trying any whitening product. Once treatment is complete, your dentist can help you choose a safe whitening option for your new smile.
Visits and Cost
Scheduling, insurance, and paying for treatment.
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Simply call our practice at (718) 238-9888! Our staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need.
Is the first consultation free?
Yes! Your first consultation is FREE. Call us at (718) 238-9888 or request a consultation online, and our team will walk you through exactly what your first visit includes, with no surprises.
Do you accept insurance?
Many dental plans include orthodontic benefits, and our team will check your coverage, explain your benefits, and help you use them. See Insurance & Financing for details.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We offer flexible payment options so treatment fits your budget, and orthodontic treatment is typically an eligible FSA/HSA expense. Your exact fee is reviewed with you before treatment begins. See Insurance & Financing.
Do I need a referral from my dentist?
No referral is needed. You’re welcome to call us directly, and we’ll keep your family dentist updated throughout treatment.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to talk through anything, from costs to timing. Book a consultation with Dr. Costalos and get clear, honest answers about your smile.