Before you get braces in Kyle or Invisalign in Kyle, you want to know what you’re getting into. At Oldham Family Orthodontics in Kyle, we completely understand that! When you go in for your initial consultation, it’s helpful to have a list of questions handy so you can feel thoroughly prepared before treatment starts. Here are ten questions you should ask your Kyle orthodontist!

What Are Your Qualifications to Handle My Case?

You don’t want just anyone making adjustments to your smile. It’s important that your orthodontist in Kyle has the right education and experience to be considered a professional in his/her field. Your orthodontist in Buda should not only have graduated from dental school, but also should have completed a 2-3 year accredited orthodontic residency program. It’s a bonus if they are also board certified by The American Board of Orthodontics (Dr. Oldham is board certified 😉 ).

What Are My Treatment Options?

During your consultation, your orthodontist in Kyle will discuss the specifics of your case and outline whether you are a good candidate for Invisalign, braces, clear braces, in-house aligners, etc. Because everyone’s an individual, what might work great for one person may not be the right fit for you. If your orthodontist suggests Kyle braces over Invisalign in Kyle, ask him/her why and make sure you’re fully educated and informed on all your treatment options.

What Problems Will the Treatment Fix?

Your orthodontist in Kyle should be willing to talk about the progression of your treatment, from the first to the very last appointment. If they utilize new technology, like a 3D Scanner, you should be able to digitally see how your teeth will shift and change during treatment and what you can expect your final smile to look like.

What Will Happen if I Don’t Move Forward with the Treatment You’re Proposing?

Sometimes orthodontic treatment is completely cosmetic, but a lot of times it fixes issues like a crossbite and overcrowding, which if left uncorrected can cause serious issues in the future. We are here to fix bites and a beautiful straight smile is a side effect. Many parents wait too long before bringing their child in for treatment, at which point adult teeth have to be pulled to make space in the mouth for the teeth to shift and change position. It’s always ok to get a second opinion from another orthodontist if you’re unsure about the proposed treatment, just be aware that the longer you wait to begin treatment, the more future issues you may have to deal with.

How Often Do I Need to Come in For Visits?

If you’re a candidate for Buda/Kyle braces, you’ll come into the office every 4-6 weeks to receive new rubber bands and have your wires tightened and adjusted. If your orthodontist in Kyle decides that Invisalign is right for you, you’ll come in every few weeks to make sure everything is going according to your treatment plan. You may be tempted to skip these “check-in” visits, but it’s important that your orthodontist in Kyle keeps an eye on your progress so you won’t experience any setbacks.

How Do I Take Care of My Teeth During Treatment?

It’s no secret that you should be brushing and flossing regularly to keep your teeth healthy and bright, and when you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment the need for good oral hygiene is paramount. Your Kyle orthodontist will give you tips for brushing and flossing around brackets and wires and walk you through the steps you should take at home.

How Long Will I Need Kyle Braces/Invisalign?

While every case is different, most people need to wear braces or Invisalign for about 18 months to 2 years for treatment to be effective. If you are bringing your child in for Phase 1 orthodontics, your child may only need to wear braces for a year or so, and then require a second set of braces in their teen years for an additional time period. Ask your orthodontist what the right length of time is for your individual case.

How Much Will it Cost?

Although orthodontic treatment may not be cheap, it’s well worth it for a beautiful smile. Different costs apply if treatment is for Phase 1 versus Phase 2/Comprehensive. Phase 1 treatment is considered interceptive orthodontics, where orthodontists are trying to fix a specific issue to prevent future issues down the road, such as creating space for permanent teeth that are coming in. Phase 2/Comprehensive treatment is to make sure your permanent teeth are in the correct position for a healthy bite with a beautiful straight smile as a side effect.

Do I Need to Adjust My Diet During My Treatment?

Hard candy, sticky food, and extra sugary candy should be avoided while wearing Kyle/Buda braces. Your Kyle orthodontist should give you a list of foods to stay away from; a list of foods that can cause damage to wires and brackets. If you’re wearing Invisalign, you’ll need to take your aligners out before you eat or drink anything other than water to keep them in good condition and clean.

Will I Need to Wear a Retainer After My Treatment is Complete?

Yes! After braces or aligners shift your teeth into proper position, wearing a retainer at night is what will keep them from moving back into their old habits. Once your treatment is complete, you’ll need to wear your clear, Invisalign-like retainer 24/7 (except for eating) for about three months. After that, the rule is: night time for a lifetime! Your smile and your teeth will thank you.

Visit Oldham Family Orthodontics in Kyle

No matter what age you are, we have the right orthodontic solutions for you at Oldham Family Orthodontics in Kyle. If you’re considering Buda braces, Invisalign in Kyle, or another form of treatment, board-certified Kyle orthodontist Dr. Maxwell Oldham has the right education and expertise to evaluate your individual case. Dr. Oldham and our staff promise to take care of you from the minute you walk in the door until your treatment is fully complete.

“Dr. Max, Olivia, and their team have created an office environment that is warm and welcoming. The Kyle community is lucky to have them. The care they provide is high-quality, cutting edge, personalized and professional. We plan to continue to use this office for a long, long time.” –Google review from Drew B.

We offer comprehensive orthodontic treatment to kids, teens, and adults in the Buda/Kyle area! Can’t make it during normal business time? We’re open for extended weeknight and weekend hours to fit your busy schedule! Visit us today!

If you live in Kyle, San Marcos, or Buda, orthodontics has never been easier.

We provide Kyle/Buda braces and Invisalign in Kyle to kids, teens, and adults.

Call us today at 512-256-7886 to schedule your FREE orthodontic consultation!