Discover the Top Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist
It’s natural to have questions to ask your orthodontist during your appointment. As usual, Dr. Normand Bach, a Montréal-based orthodontist, gladly answers all the questions raised by his patients. He gives clear and straightforward answers about a complex medical specialty that requires precision and expertise.
The following non-exhaustive list serves as a good starting point to learn more about the most frequently asked questions regarding orthodontic care.
Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist and Reassuring Answers
What is the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?
To start, an orthodontist doesn’t usually treat cavities or perform tooth extraction.
While a dentist is a general oral health practitioner, an orthodontist is a specialist who has completed many years of training focused on correcting malocclusions, or “bad bites,” and improving facial harmony and the alignment of your teeth.
What Are Malocclusions?
Malocclusion is a term used by orthodontists to describe misalignment of the teeth or improper fit between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
Malocclusions can result from a variety of factors, such as insufficient or excessive space between teeth, or differences in growth between your lower and upper jaws, etc.
Depending on your type of malocclusion, an orthodontist will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What Should You Expect During Your First Visit?
During your first visit to Dr. Normand Bach’s clinic, located in the heart of Montréal on the Plateau-Mont-Royal, your orthodontist will assess your situation, establish a diagnosis, and discuss possible treatment options. To get a better understanding of the situation, X-rays of your teeth will be taken, and a personalized treatment plan will be proposed.
Your orthodontist will also take the necessary time to answer all your questions and explain the next steps. This is an ideal opportunity to ask for clarification about the planned treatment.
What Should You Expect During Your Second Visit?
During your second visit, your orthodontist usually confirms the initial assessment using additional photographs, supplementary X-rays, if applicable, and digital impressions. These will be used to design the orthodontic appliance (fixed or removable) best suited to your needs.
How Long Does It Take to Make an Orthodontic Appliance?
In most cases, two to four weeks are necessary for the fabrication of an orthodontic appliance. Dr. Normand Bach’s team will plan an appointment to place the appliance and explain how it works and provide guidance on how to achieve optimal results.
Regular follow-up visits are necessary to adjust the appliance. As treatment progresses, these appointments generally become less frequent.
Are Removable Appliances Effective?
Among the questions to ask your orthodontist, this is one of the most frequent! It shows how much this type of technology sparks real interest. As indicated, removable appliances such as Invisalign can be worn and removed, as needed, most often during meals.
These appliances can be highly effective, as long as they are worn in accordance with the treatment plan prescribed by the orthodontist.
Should Certain Foods Be Avoided During Orthodontic Treatment?
Generally, you won’t have to substantially modify your eating habits during treatment. However, it is recommended that you avoid hard foods, such as apples, raw carrots, raw turnips, etc.
Moreover, we suggest that you avoid eating hard or sticky candies.
Maintaining good dental hygiene is also essential. Be sure to brush your teeth after each meal and continue to practise proper oral care throughout your treatment, and well beyond!
Orthodontic Treatment for Children: At What Age Should It Start?
According to research, an initial orthodontic appointment may be recommended as early as 7 years old, particularly in cases of malocclusions.
Your orthodontist might not be able to provide a specific treatment plan during that visit, but he will be able to monitor the child’s dental evolution and identify potential issues early. It’s easier to treat early and at a young age. It also helps avoid more complex problems.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Painful?
Orthodontic treatment is generally not painful. Some mild discomfort may be experienced, especially during the adaptation period at the start of the treatment, but this is usually temporary.
Furthermore, thanks to digital impressions, the process is now easier. This technology offers a much more pleasant alternative than traditional putty impressions.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take for Adults?
The duration of orthodontic treatments for adults varies depending on each patient and the prescribed appliance. Among questions to ask your orthodontist, this one comes up often. Generally, treatment lasts between 12 and 18 months. Some cases may be treated faster, while others require a longer period.
A Consultation Is Essential
If you still have questions to ask your orthodontist, Dr. Normand Bach and his team in Montréal will be happy to provide answers and guide you through every step of your orthodontic journey with care and professionalism. Discover Dr. Normand Bach’s clinic, its services, cutting-edge technology and efficient results. Book an appointment today; a passionate and dedicated team is ready to welcome you.
