Braces FAQ
Common questions about braces: pain, cost, treatment length, eating, cleaning, and what happens at each appointment. Answered by CDZ Ortho in Johns Creek.
Good questions.
Clear answers.
Do braces hurt?
Having them put on does not hurt. The teeth are sore for three to five days afterward as they start to move. Adjustment visits cause similar soreness for a day or two. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient.
How long will I need braces?
Most cases take twelve to thirty months. Dr. Cen gives you an estimate at the consult. Treatment length depends on what is being corrected and on following instructions, particularly elastic wear.
How much do braces cost?
It depends on the case. You get the full fee in writing at the free consult. Monthly payment plans are available.
Will my insurance cover it?
Many plans include an orthodontic lifetime maximum. We work with most PPO plans and verify your benefits before treatment starts.
How often are appointments?
Every one to two months during active treatment. Most are short.
Can I still play sports?
Yes. Use an orthodontic mouthguard for contact sports.
What can’t I eat?
Hard and sticky food. Ice, nuts, popcorn, hard candy, gum, caramel. Cut firm fruit and vegetables into pieces rather than biting into them.
Will braces damage my teeth?
Any orthodontic treatment carries some risk. The roots of some teeth shorten slightly as they move. This is usually minor and does not affect how the tooth works, and Dr. Cen monitors it during treatment. Gums can recede where a tooth is moved through thin bone. The risk you have most control over is decalcification. Plaque left around brackets leaves white marks on the enamel. Brushing after meals and cleaning between the teeth daily is what prevents it. All of this is covered as part of your consent before treatment starts.
Can I get braces if I have a crown, a bridge, or an implant?
Crowns are usually fine, though bonding a bracket to porcelain takes extra preparation. A bridge holds the teeth it spans together as one unit, so those teeth cannot be moved separately. A bridge often has to be sectioned or replaced as part of the plan. Implants do not move, since they are fused to bone, so they are planned around. Dr. Cen will assess this at the consult.
Am I too old for braces?
No. Tooth movement works the same at any age provided the gums and bone are healthy. Adults make up a meaningful share of orthodontic patients.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book a consult directly.
What happens after the braces come off?
You wear a retainer. Teeth move throughout life and a retainer is what keeps the result. This is covered on the retention page.
Can I get braces on just the top or just the bottom?
Sometimes. It depends on how the bite fits together. Treating one arch in isolation can worsen the bite in some cases. Dr. Cen will tell you whether it is appropriate for you.
What if I have a dental appointment during treatment?
Keep going to your general dentist for cleanings and check-ups throughout orthodontic treatment. Tell them you are in braces when you book.