Ask the Expert
Navigating orthodontic treatment often brings questions about timing, options, comfort, cost, and lifestyle
QUESTION FOR THE MONTH:
“Am I or my child ready for orthodontics? Answers to common questions about starting treatment.”
EXPERT ANSWER:
Navigating orthodontic treatment often brings questions about timing, options, comfort, cost, and lifestyle. Here are answers to five frequently asked questions:
1. How old do you have to be to get braces?
There is no upper age limit! Anyone from age 7 to 70 can achieve a healthy smile, as long as they have healthy natural permanent teeth and supporting bone. Early evaluations at age 7 allow us to guide jaw growth in children, while adult care is more popular than ever.
2. Are clear aligners as effective as traditional braces?
Yes! Modern clear aligners use custom-designed, removable plastic trays to align teeth discreetly and predictably. They are an aesthetic choice for adults and teens. A consultation determines whether aligners or fixed braces suit your specific bite.
3. Is it painful to get braces?
Applying braces is more uncomfortable than painful—no needles are involved during placement! Mild tooth sensitivity or pressure is normal for a few days after the initial fitting and routine wire adjustments. This sensitivity is temporary and easy to manage as your mouth adapts over time.
4. Why is orthodontic treatment an investment?
Safely aligning teeth requires specialist expertise, precise biomechanical planning, advanced 3D digital technology, and high-quality materials. To make treatment manageable, flexible structured payment plans and medical aid submission assistance are available.
5. Will wearing braces affect my diet and weight?
Avoid hard, chewy, and sticky foods to protect brackets and wires. While adapting to softer choices alters habits, any weight changes depend entirely on individual lifestyle.
Achieving a healthier bite starts with a thorough 3D clinical evaluation. Torq Orthodontics is now open in Glenvista to welcome patients of all ages.
ADDRESS: 21 Sneeuberg Street, Glenvista, Johannesburg
TELEPHONE / WHATSAPP: 063 620 6323
WEBSITE: www.torqorthodontics.co.za
INSTAGRAM: @torq_orthodontics
FACEBOOK: Torq Orthodontics
