FAQS

Most Frequently Asked Questions

Researching your orthodontic alternatives and diving to the sphere of orthodontic care may feel overwhelming. That is why we are dedicated to providing our clients as several resources and advice as we can. Have a look at a number of our Frequently Asked Questions below and, as always, in case you can not locate your particular question, do not be afraid to request our experienced staff. We have questions and answer that are usually asked mostly. We have sectioned of different categories to help you with some questions you might have for our orthodontist.

Has your dentist suggested braces and you don’t know why?

Here are some common problems, (all pictures have been treated at Dublin Orthodontists)

Prominent Teeth
Reduced Overbite
Overcrowding
Crossbites
Missing Teeth or Gaps

Prominent Teeth

Some teeth stick out too much this is called an increased over-jet. From the side they protrude and can be overly prominent in the face. These teeth can be brought back into line with braces. Sometimes we use a functional appliance to do this. The orthodontist will show you one of these when you visit the surgery.

Reduced Overbite

Some bites have the opposite problem and the teeth have a reduced over-jet and overbite. These teeth can be brought forwards with braces. Some bites like this may require the use of elastics while you wear braces. The Orthodontist will explain how to wear them to get the teeth into the best bite possible.

Overcrowding

A very common problem is that a child can have too many teeth. The teeth come through in unusual places and there is a shortage of space in the mouth. Quite often it may be necessary to extract teeth in this situation to make room for the other teeth to be straightened. Your Orthodontist will explain what teeth need to be extracted. She will write a letter to the dentist who will remove these teeth. Then your braces will be placed.

Missing Teeth or Gaps

Sometimes teeth don’t develop or are knocked out. Sometimes teeth are too small and gaps are obvious. Braces can help close space. If as in this case a tooth is lost the brace can make the space the right size for a bridge or an implant.

General Orthodontic Questions

How orthodontic treatment works?

Orthodontics works by applying light constant force to the teeth to allow them to move in a predictable manner and direction. Orthodontic forces are applied through small brackets attached to the teeth using wires or via clear aligners using attachments to move the teeth by changing the shape of the aligner to a computerised model outcome.

Why is orthodontic treatment is necessary?

Orthodontic treatment is not necessary for everyone. The purpose of the treatment is to create a healthy bite, straight teeth are easier to clean therefore allow easier cleaing and therefore allow you to keep your teeth for much longer. Most cases are elective and the point of this treatment is to improve self esteem which it is an important benefit of orthodontic treatment ie gaining an attractive smile. In some cases orthodontic treatment is necessary to adjust the bite prior to surgery of the jaws or prior to dental work such as crown and bridge work.

When should orthodontic treatment start?

The best time to start seeing the orthodontist is age 9 years of age. At this age a lot of the baby teeth are being shed and the permanent teeth are starting to come through. The Orthodontist can asses if all the teeth are there or not if there is any need to adjust the bite. Often an early course of treatment can simply and improve the final outcome.

Can orthodontic treatment be reversed?

Yes it can be reversed. If teeth have been extracted or damaged then this is more difficult. However it is possible to correct teeth which have relapsed due to not wearing your retainer or to change the position of teeth by wearing a brace again.

Why should I choose you for orthodontic treatment?

Dublin Orthodontists have been creating beautiful smiles since 2003. Our biggest fans are our patients due to the changes that they see over their time with us. From the beggining of your journey to the end of treatment you will recieve the best treatment from our Specialist team. We use all the latest brace technology and we are up to date with the ever changing world of Orthodontics. Patients like our payment plans, we work with you to get you a plan to suit your needs. We have a Dentist and a Hygienist here so all of your dental needs can be met if you don’t already have your own dentist. For more info see our before and after photos and what our patients are saying.

Which orthodontic treatment is best?

There is no right or wrong brace treatment, people are individuals and some people prefer metal braces to clear braces and some want clear retainers. The treatments are different prices and that often dictates what treatment people go for. One thing that is the same a super spectacular smile whatever brace you choose.

Adult Braces Questions

When should adults get braces?

There is no age when an adult should get braces, the ideal time to treat a patient is when they are a teenager but if you missed the boat or if you find your teeth are moving then you should seek help with the Orthodontists. You are never too old to start at present our oldest patient has been in their 60’s.

Are adults to old for braces?

No when you are an adult the teeth move slower so the braces might be on a little bit longer than a teenager.

Why do adults get braces?

There are many reason that adults get braces but often it is to improve the appearance of their smile, in other cases it might be necessary to fix the bite and in cases involving another dentist the patient may have been referred for braces to put the teeth into a better position prior to bridges crowns or veneers. Sometimes adults are referred for braces which are a better alternative to veneers as they do not destroy the teeth.

Can adults get braces with missing teeth?

Yes sometimes we can move the remaining teeth into a better position in preparation for implants or bridges to replace the missing teeth.

How much are adults braces?

They are much the same price as children’s. The price will depend on what type of brace you choose.

Kids Braces Questions

What age is it OK for kids to get braces?

There is no set age that children should see the Orthodontist, some children get their adult teeth early some late. In general once the front teeth have started to come through then make an appointment also in general have an Orthodontic check in 6th class.

Are kids too young for braces?

The best age to see a child is about age 9 years when they have started to get some of their adult teeth.

Do you have to have all your permanent teeth?

No in fact it is often beneficial to have some of your baby teeth so that the Orthodontist can help nature develop the smooth into a better shape.

What braces are best for kids?

Metal braces are most commonly worn but form some children, Invisalign is becoming an option.

Do you have payment plans for kids braces?

Yes see payment plans page, this will give you an idea of our options.

What are the main reasons kids get braces?

Kids get braces for many different reasons sometimes these are personal. Teenagers can be really self conscious about their teeth, teeth with a poor appearance can seriously affect a teenager’s self esteem. If you have straight teeth not only does it make a person look more attractive but it will result in a healthier smile that will last for a life time. As we get older we can loose our teeth due to poor brushing gum disease and a poor diet, straightening childrens’s teeth allows them to brush more easily and this can help them to maintain healthy strong teeth for longer.

Invisalign Questions

How invisalign attachments are removed?

The Orthodontist or Therapist will use a drill to remove the glue from the teeth. This is a quick procedure normally lasting no more than 10 to 15mins

How Invisalign move my teeth?

The Invisalign appliance is custom made to fit the patient like a glove. A series of aligners work to move your teeth into a new position. Your teeth can move up to 0.25mm a day if you are wearing the aligner 22 out of 24hours.

When will I see results with Invisalign?

You will start to see results a few weeks after fitting the aligners. Everyone’s teeth are different and move at different rates, the younger you are the quicker the teeth move. Some changes like twists in the teeth correct quite quickly other changes like fixing the bite may take longer.

Which is better Invisalign or braces?

Not everyone is suitable for Invisalign your Orthodontist will assess you first. Invisalign is a better aesthetic alternative to braces and it does work better in some cases than others but for more difficult cases fixed braces metal or clear are a better solution.

Can Invisalign fix an overbite?

Yes Invisalign is very good at reducing a deep bite.

Who is not a candidate for Invisalign braces?

More difficult cases are not suitable talk to your Orthodontist.

Clear Braces Questions

How long do clear braces take to work?

The same amount of time as metal braces for an average case 18-24 months.

How do clear braces work?

They work in the same way as metal ones by applying a light force to the tooth to move it into a different position.

Whats the difference between clear braces and normal braces?

Clear braces are made of porcelain and a metal insert to enable the teeth to move along the metal wire.

Who can get clear braces?

In general adults who are looking for a cosmetic solution choose clear braces as they are not as visible as the metal braces.

Why should I get clear braces?

Clear braces are less visible than metal braces. You have to be quite close to a person before you notice them. They are not unattractive and newer materials mean the braces are smaller and stain resistant making yellow looking braces a thing of the past.

What are the costs for clear braces?

The costs of clear braces are €300 more expensive than the metal braces.

6 Month Smiles Questions