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Orthodontic FAQ

Home » Patient Resources » Orthodontic FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics

For most people, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is the reason for receiving orthodontic care. If you’re self-conscious about your smile, correcting your concerns with braces or Invisalign will greatly improve the way you look and feel.

When your treatment is complete, you will have the smile you’ve always dreamed of and the confidence to show it off! We also want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire orthodontic experience, and our practice is dedicated to making sure that you receive the quality care you deserve.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to the proper position.

Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can now choose clear or metal brackets and, in some cases, the color of your appliance. Wires are far less noticeable, and the latest materials are designed to move teeth faster with more comfort. Today, any age is a great age to wear braces!

Duration Of Treatment

Treatment time varies and can last between one and three years, depending on several factors including age, treatment method, and how minor or severe your case is. A big factor in a successful treatment is you! The more involved and diligent you are, the more efficient your treatment will be. For children, receiving interceptive or early treatment can also help provide a quicker treatment time.

Before beginning your orthodontic care, your doctor will discuss all of your options and provide an estimate for how long your full treatment may take. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about orthodontics and the treatments we provide.

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing 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. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.

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 see an orthodontist. 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, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

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 your orthodontist or 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 it safe in its container so that 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 your orthodontist. 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 number of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly 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.

If I Get Braces, How Long Do I Have To Wear Them?

The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.

Do Braces Hurt?

Braces do not often hurt though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple of 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 in between your braces where your brush isn’t able to reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.

If I Have Braces, Do I Still Need Dental Checkups Every 6 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 that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while 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 give us a call or click below! 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.

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Get Started Today!

The first step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment for a free consultation. At the initial consultation, we will sit down with you one-on-one and create an individualized treatment plan for you to design a smile you are proud to show off.

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Patient Reviews

Our 5-Star Experience

My son and I had an amazing experience at David McInnis Orthodontics.Dr. McInnis and his team were friendly, professional, and seriously on point. They made the whole process smooth,... informative, and fun!If you’re looking for an orthodontist who makes the entire treatment experience easy and convenient, this is the place.Thanks to the whole team for the warm welcome and for making us feel like part of the family. This smile journey is off to a great start!read more
Tucker S.
The staff are amazing. The ladies are so friendly! The entire staff are so accommodating and welcoming from day one!!
Virginia E.
I got in and did my consultation and had them installed in the same day. Was absolutely pleased
DURTY O.
I really like this place. They are very patient with us and not everything is in a rush. I have a toothbrush station if you come after school and you need to brush your teeth, you get some... Dippin dots when you get your braces and after you get your braces and you get them taken off You get a little cup of candy and a T-shirtread more
Keena C.
Extremely thorough in explaining what needed to be done. We feel like we're in terrific and capable hands! Super friendly office staff and relaxing environment.
Kim A.
We love this place!! My son went to 3 different orthodontist and he picked this one 10 min after we walked in the door and he’s 13!
Annette H.
As an adult in my 60s, I was nervous about starting the orthodontic journey. I felt confident from Day 1 that I was in excellent hands with Dr. McInnis. His years of experience combined... with his kindness, professionalism and commitment to shared decision-making made the process effortless and even enjoyable. He does not try to oversell, does not rush the process, and offers wise recommendations every step of the way as he closely monitors the progress. His staff is personable and punctual. I am thrilled with the results - not just the cosmetic difference, but also the noticeable correction of my bite. Don’t waste your time checking anywhere else. This is the orthodontist for you!read more
Joy V.
We were recommended by my daughters dentist to start my daughters new journey. I love everyone there. They are very helpful and have been wonderful to my daughter with her fiest time with... braces. She is beyond excited and is happy with her smile finally getting fixed. They have helped me out also as a parent with a piece of mind with everything about this whole new experience. They have answered all my questions and are very helpful with all my concerns. Best place ever☺️ I will recommend them to everyone i knowread more
Tiffany A.
They are all very nice and the lady that put on my son's braces explained everything to him as she was doing it.
Amesha J.
I cannot recommend Dr. Lewis and his incredible team enough! From the moment we stepped into the office, we were greeted with warmth and professionalism. Dr. Lewis's expertise and care... transformed my son's smile, and Maria's kindness and attention to detail made every visit a pleasant experience. The entire staff goes above and beyond to ensure their patients feel comfortable and well taken care of. Thank you, Dr. Lewis and team, for the exceptional service and for giving my son the smile of his dreams!read more
Elizabeth P.
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David Mcinnis Orthodontics

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EASLEY

  • 411 S. Pendleton St. Easley, SC 29640

ANDERSON

  • 2315 N. Main St. #120 Anderson, SC 29621

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Tuesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday 8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm

EASLEY

ANDERSON

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