What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Dr. Khan obtained her Doctorate of Medicine in Dentistry and completed a three-year residency with a specialty in orthodontics and a Master of Science degree. She is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
What should I look for when choosing an orthodontist?
Choosing an orthodontist who “clicks” with you and your family is important. At Orthodontic Boutique of Connecticut, Dr. Khan and our team offer:
- Braces and Invisalign® for both phase 1 and phase 2 treatment
- Non-extraction orthodontics without headgear
- Options to accelerate treatment with PROPEL
- Gingival laser contouring and whitening for our patients
What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to visit Dr. Khan at Orthodontic Boutique of Connecticut. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens.
About one in every five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any age is a good time to visit our Trumbull or Darien orthodontic offices.
How can I take care of my teeth if I'm wearing braces or a retainer?
- ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
- Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask Dr. Khan or your family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
- If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and remember to keep the retainer safe in its container so it does not get lost or broken.
- Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by our office. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
- During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, and can cause more plaque and potential cavities.
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).
- Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.
What are braces?
Braces are used by Dr. Khan to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from at Orthodontic Boutique of Connecticut, including:
- Self-ligating metal braces
- Invisalign® clear aligners for adults and teens
- Invisalign® First for kids
- Bruis lingual braces
If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?
Orthodontic treatment time varies for each patient. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment time ranges from 15-24 months. Invisalign treatment is generally six months shorter than braces treatment.
Do braces hurt?
Braces do not often hurt though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.
Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?
With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces.
You should also floss daily to get between your braces where your brush isn't able to reach. We can show you how to brush and floss properly once your braces are placed.
If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
Yes! In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Our team will work closely with your dentist to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy while you're wearing braces.
Will my braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?
Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Simply call our Trumbull or Darien practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need.
