Dental & Orthodontic FAQs

An orthodontist is a dental specialist trained in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting irregularities of the teeth and jaws. While all orthodontists are dentists, only about six percent of dentists complete an additional two to three years of orthodontic residency training. This advanced education allows them to create healthy, beautiful smiles through braces, aligners, and other corrective treatments.

Most orthodontic issues are hereditary, such as jaw size discrepancies, crowding, or spacing. Others develop from habits like thumb-sucking, early loss of baby teeth, or mouth breathing. No matter the cause, early evaluation can help prevent minor problems from becoming more complex.

Orthodontic treatment improves both the appearance and function of your smile. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Correcting bite alignment also reduces uneven wear on teeth and supports long-term oral health.

Yes, orthodontic treatment can sometimes help reduce jaw pain or TMJ symptoms by improving your bite alignment and relieving stress on the jaw joints. A thorough exam will help determine if orthodontic treatment is the right solution for your specific case.

If you have crooked, crowded, or unevenly spaced teeth, or issues with your bite, you may benefit from braces or Invisalign. A consultation with an orthodontist will include a full evaluation and personalized recommendation based on your smile goals and lifestyle.

Look for an orthodontist who is board-certified, experienced, and offers a range of treatment options, including Invisalign and Damon braces. At Get It Straight Orthodontics, our team provides personalized care in a welcoming environment, helping patients throughout Rochester, Pittsford, and Macedon feel confident in their treatment choice. Reading patient reviews and scheduling a consultation with our office is a great way to learn more about your options and find the right fit for your smile.

Signs that your child might benefit from early tre

atment include crowding, thumb-sucking, difficulty chewing, or teeth that do not come together properly. An evaluation around age seven can help identify issues early and guide proper jaw and tooth development.

You or your child may benefit from orthodontic care if there are issues like crowding, gaps, overbites, or underbites. Even small misalignments can affect chewing, speech, and oral hygiene. A consultation with an orthodontist can help determine the best approach for a healthy, confident smile.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early evaluation allows the orthodontist to monitor growth and development, even if treatment does not start right away. Orthodontic treatment can also be successful at any age as long as teeth and gums are healthy.

Phase I treatment, also called early treatment, typically begins while some baby teeth are still present. It focuses on guiding jaw growth and creating space for permanent teeth. Phase II treatment usually begins once all permanent teeth have erupted and is designed to align the teeth and finalize the bite.

Yes, orthodontic treatment is effective at any age as long as your teeth and gums are healthy. Many adults in the Rochester area choose discreet options like clear aligners or ceramic braces to improve their smiles with minimal disruption to their daily lives.

Invisalign Teen works best for motivated teens with mild to moderate alignment issues who are committed to wearing their aligners as directed. During a consultation, the orthodontist will evaluate your teen’s teeth and growth to determine if Invisalign Teen is a good fit.

Braces and aligners use gentle, constant pressure to slowly move teeth into their correct positions. These appliances can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic and may be removable or bonded to the teeth. With today’s technology, treatment is often faster and more comfortable, with adjustment appointments scheduled every 10-12 weeks.

The initial appointment takes about one hour and includes a complete evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Our treatment coordinator will review the recommended plan, discuss financial details, and answer any questions about insurance and scheduling. Children who are not ready to begin treatment are placed in our Recall Program, which allows us to monitor growth and determine the best time to start.

Treatment time varies based on individual needs, the complexity of the case, and the type of appliances used. Most patients complete treatment within 18 to 24 months. Consistent appointments, good oral hygiene, and following your orthodontist’s instructions can help keep treatment on track.

Your first visit includes a full exam, digital imaging, and a personalized treatment plan. The orthodontist will explain your options, review costs and insurance, and answer any questions. The goal is to help you feel informed and confident about your next steps.

Get It Straight offers a variety of orthodontic options, including Damon metal and clear braces, traditional braces, and Invisalign clear aligners. Each option is designed for comfort, efficiency, and aesthetic preference to fit your individual needs.

Braces do not usually hurt, but some soreness or discomfort can occur after they are first placed or adjusted. This feeling typically fades within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods can help ease the initial adjustment period.

Braces are carefully removed in a quick and comfortable process. The orthodontist will detach the brackets, remove any remaining adhesive, and take impressions or scans for your retainer. Most patients find the process painless and exciting as they see their new smile for the first time.

You can still play sports with braces, but wearing a mouthguard is recommended to protect your teeth and appliances. Custom-fit or orthodontic mouthguards are best for comfort and protection. If an injury occurs, contact your orthodontist right away.

Most musicians adjust quickly to playing with braces. Brass and woodwind players may need a short period of adaptation and can use orthodontic wax to reduce irritation. Practicing regularly will help you return to normal performance comfort.

Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage wires or brackets, such as popcorn, nuts, caramel, and hard candy. Cut crunchy foods like apples or carrots into small pieces before eating. Following these tips will help prevent damage and keep treatment on track.

Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, paying close attention to the gumline and brackets. Floss at least once a day using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser to reach between the wires. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent cavities and staining during treatment.

If a bracket or wire becomes loose, call our office to schedule a repair appointment. You can cover any sharp edges with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation until you’re seen. Avoid trying to fix or remove the appliance yourself.

Retainers are typically worn full-time for the first few months after braces are removed, then gradually transitioned to nighttime wear. Wearing your retainer as directed helps maintain your new smile and prevent teeth from shifting. Retainers are a lifelong commitment to keeping your results.

Yes, it's important to continue seeing your general dentist for regular cleanings and exams during orthodontic treatment. Your dentist and orthodontist work together to maintain your overall oral health and ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout treatment.

Clean your retainer daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the plastic. Keep your retainer in its protective case when not in use to prevent loss or damage.

Contact our office as soon as possible to replace your retainer. Wearing your retainer consistently is essential to keeping your teeth in their corrected positions, and waiting too long can cause unwanted shifting.

Most patients visit every 10-12 weeks for adjustments and progress checks. Regular appointments help ensure your treatment stays on schedule and any small issues are corrected before they become problems.

Many patients benefit from a permanent (fixed) retainer to help keep their teeth aligned after braces. Your orthodontist will recommend whether a fixed or removable retainer is best based on your treatment and individual needs.