Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Braces Work?
Braces require bonding brackets to each tooth. These brackets connect via a thin metal wire called the archwire. Manual adjustments shorten the connection between each bracket, gently guiding the jaw and teeth into alignment.
Is It Too Late to Get Braces as an Adult?
No! There are numerous reasons braces are beneficial for adults, including:
- Improved Oral Health — Braces help align teeth properly, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Enhanced Aesthetics — Achieve a straighter, more attractive smile that boosts your self-esteem and leaves a lasting impression.
- Correction of Bite Issues — Braces can address bite problems such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites, which can improve chewing and speaking functions.
- Prevention of Future Dental Problems — Properly aligned teeth can prevent excessive wear, tooth decay, and jaw issues, safeguarding your oral health in the long run.
- Increased Confidence — A well-aligned smile can enhance your confidence in both personal and professional settings, improving your quality of life.
Why Might Braces Be Necessary?
Braces improve smiles, enhancing self-confidence for many wearers. Braces also correctly align the jawbone or straighten the teeth to prevent future oral damage or other issues.
Do Braces Hurt?
Placing braces on and adjusting them may feel uncomfortable for the first few days. Over-the-counter medications are sufficient to manage this discomfort.
The teeth-aligning process is also very slow. It involves regular tightening that can lead to toothache and discomfort for a day or two after tightening. However, this discomfort typically does not interfere with daily routines and goes away once your mouth adjusts. Remember, this is a sign your treatment is working!
We strive to make your experience as easy and pain-free as possible. If there are issues regarding pain or discomfort, we can discuss options for your care.
Are Braces Expensive?
The price of braces is relatively standard, with costs varying due to the type of braces chosen and the severity of issues needing correcting. At your initial consultation, Dr. Casilla and her team will review all available options and create a custom treatment plan that fits both your needs and budget.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Braces?
While some insurance plans may cover some of the costs associated with braces, not all dental insurances cover the cost of orthodontic treatment. When they do, the amount of coverage may vary depending on the type of plan you have. Our experienced team here at Castilla Orthodontics will happily assist you and your family with filing through insurance to ensure you get the most out of your benefits.
We also offer flexible financing options to assist in financing orthodontic treatment. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to achieve a beautiful smile, and our team is here to help you every step of the way!
How Long Would I Need to Wear Braces?
The length of time needed for braces varies slightly with each person. The average treatment time is around 18 months. However, shorter times are more likely in younger patients due to their teeth still developing, making adjustment easier.
Are Metal Braces My Only Option?
At Castilla Orthodontics, we offer a range of options for braces, including clear and gold braces. Clear braces are designed to blend in with your natural smile, while gold braces are for those looking to make a statement with their smile during treatment.
How Do I Know Which Option Is Right for Me?
While all of the options we offer are effective in helping you reach your smile goals, it comes down to what you feel you need and want. If you’re unsure, Dr. Castilla at Castilla Orthodontics can help you evaluate your options.
Do Braces Require Additional Care and Cleaning?
Yes. Braces involve multiple brackets and wires that easily hide plaque and food particles. Applying additional care is necessary to remove these particles.
In addition to added brushing and flossing, patients with braces should refrain from eating anything that could break, pull, or damage the materials. This list includes tough and chewy foods, such as hard candies or gum.
Lastly, patients should wear protective mouthguards when participating in contact sports.
What Happens After Removing the Braces?
To ensure your teeth stay in the proper position once you complete treatment, retainers must be worn as directed by Dr. Castilla. Your retainer is key in helping to keep your smile in place and prevent any shifting once your braces are removed.
What If I Am Not Satisfied with My Braces Treatment?
At Castilla Orthodontics, our goal is to make you proud of your smile. Dr. Castilla has created thousands of beautiful smiles in the Salem area community, so you are in good hands when it comes to your braces treatment.
To ensure that beautiful smiles last a lifetime, we offer the “Guarantee My Smile” plan. If after removing your braces, your teeth begin to shift back to their original positioning due to improper retainer wear, lost retainers, etc., we will happily help get your smile back on track! We charge a flat minimum rate of $149 per month to reinstall the braces and work with you until you’re satisfied.
Castilla Orthodontics Is Available to Answer All Your Questions
Castilla Orthodontics is a customer-based orthodontics team servicing kids, teens, and adults. We offer flexible payment options, same-day braces, and appointments that work with your busy lifestyle. We also have a fully bilingual team to ensure clear communication regarding your care.
Contact our expert team if you continue to have questions beyond this braces FAQ guide. We will assess your orthodontic needs with a free consultation and offer you multiple treatment options.
