Orthodontic FAQs

Orthodontics is a specialised field within dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating misalignments of the teeth and jaws. Orthodontic treatment typically utilises fixed braces, clear aligners, or functional appliances to achieve proper alignment.

Orthodontics is not just about achieving a beautiful, straight smile—it also significantly benefits your health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Also, it can enhance your ability to speak, breathe, and digest food.

No, orthodontic treatment doesn’t hurt. After fitting and adjustment appointments, you may experience some mild soreness as you adjust to your appliance, but this discomfort should be short-lived. You can use over-the-counter pain relief as needed.

Your treatment at Wired Orthodontics is 100% custom, so there isn’t a set treatment timeline. Generally speaking, a full comprehensive treatment can take anywhere from 18 - 24 months on average.

The cost of treatment varies based on the complexity of your case, the duration of treatment, and the type of appliance used. To make treatment more affordable, we offer 0% interest payment plans, discounts, and competitive pricing.

We suggest bringing your child in for an evaluation around age 7 to identify orthodontic issues before they develop into more serious problems. Early treatment is often more effective while the jaw is still growing, which is why orthodontic care typically begins between ages 11 and 13.

However, we are equipped to treat patients of all ages, including those in their 70s, as long as their teeth and gums are in good health.

Yes. Invisalign^® clear aligners shouldn’t affect your sport and instrument practice. If you have fixed braces, you should protect your smile with a custom sports mouthguard.

If you're using Invisalign^® clear aligners, you won’t need to change your diet during treatment. However, if you have a fixed appliance, it's best to avoid certain foods that could damage or loosen your brackets.

To protect your braces, steer clear of the following types of food:

• Sticky: Toffees, gum, and chewy candies can dislodge your brackets.
• Hard: Popcorn, ice, crusty bread, and hard fruits or vegetables can damage your braces. Instead of biting directly into pizza, sandwiches, or hard fruits, cut them into smaller pieces to enjoy them safely.
• Sugary: Soft drinks and sugary snacks can harm your enamel and leave white marks on your teeth once your braces are removed.

Most patients with braces will be seen every 6 to 10 weeks for adjustments. If you are having treatment with Invisalign^® clear aligners, we can see you less frequently since you can switch sets of aligners from the comfort of home.

Absolutely. You should keep visiting your dentist every 6 months for regular cleanings. Orthodontic appliances give plaque extra places to hide so it's even more important to clean your teeth well during orthodontic treatment.

Yes. Without a retainer, your teeth will try to shift back to their pre-treatment positions. It’s incredibly important to follow the instructions of Dr Sep to keep the results you worked so hard for.