Your primary responsibility while in orthodontic treatment is to take extra care in keeping your teeth and braces clean so that you don’t develop decalcification (white marks) on your teeth when the braces are removed. Additionally, we ask that you:

• Show up to your appointments on time and calling 24 hours prior if you need to cancel
• Treat your appliances with care
• Wear elastics and removable appliances as instructed

No, orthodontic treatment does not cause gingivitis or caries. Poor oral hygiene and plaque accumulation are the main reason for the development of caries. This is why it is very important to keep your teeth and braces clean during your treatment.

Yes, you can. We can tell you more about your specific needs when you have your initial consultation, but prior dental work does not make you ineligible.

You’re never too old to get a healthy, beautiful smile with braces or clear aligners. In fact, over 25% of our patients are adults.

Whitening, or bleaching, of the teeth can cause damage if done too often. We offer two forms of whitening at Kharsa Ortho-Dent and will work with you to make sure you get the maximum benefit without causing damage to your teeth.

Some children never need a second phase of treatment, but many do. We can tell you more when you bring your child for an evaluation.

Phase 1 treatment, also known as early or interceptive treatment is not recommended for the majority of children we evaluate, but when it is, this early phase of treatment is primarily used to address skeletal issues. For example, we use Phase 1 treatment to create space for permanent teeth to come in and to reposition the upper and lower jaw for optimum function and aesthetics.

We cannot move teeth that have not yet erupted. That’s why most orthodontic treatment occurs after the age of 12, when the second set of molars appear. However, baby teeth can be moved orthodontically in order to create the proper space for the adult teeth.

We recommend that you see your family dentist at least twice a year during orthodontic treatment. If you don’t have a family dentist, we can provide the necessary cleanings right in our office during your treatment.

No. We never reuse brackets or wires.

The technologies used to straighten teeth and create a healthy, beautiful smile have changed a lot in the past decade. Today, having braces is much more comfortable than it used to be and that is especially true when you get your braces at Kharsa Ortho-Dent. Our doctors have a patient-focused approach and use technologically advanced options that make having braces easier than ever.

The first few days after each appointment some patients experience a little tenderness of the teeth and mouth. Their teeth might even feel a little loose but that’s actually a good thing. After all – they’re on the move. You may want to take some form of pain reliever (what you would normally take for a headache) during this time, but even having a cold drink or enjoying a little ice cream can also provide instant relief.

Treatment time is different for every patient because everyone’s treatment is personalized. When you have your initial evaluation, we will be able to give you a very good idea of how long your treatment will take.