Frequently Asked Questions

The right time for an orthodontic check-up should be no later than age 7. An early orthodontic assessment will help the orthodontist detect problems with jaw growth and erupting teeth even though baby teeth are still present. Early intervention may give your orthodontist the opportunity to prevent more serious problems from developing and may also make treatment at a later age less complicated.

No, you do not need a referral to see Dr. Singh. However, if you do have one, please bring it along to your first appointment with us.

An orthodontist is a registered dental specialist who has a dental degree as well as an orthodontic degree. An orthodontist has spent an additional three years training to become an orthodontist and is therefore able to offer you expert orthodontic advice and treatment to give you the smile you desire.

Yes, you definitely can. There is no cut off age for having braces. Teeth can be moved at any age. Having healthy teeth and gums prior to starting orthodontic treatment is essential, so your orthodontist may refer you to your general dentist or other dental specialists to ensure that you receive the best possible dental care before, during, and after your orthodontic treatment.

The process of putting braces on does not hurt at all. A few hours after the braces are placed, it is normal to experience some pain and discomfort as your teeth and mouth start adjusting to the braces. This pain and discomfort can last for a few days and then usually resolves. Simple painkillers such as the ones that you would normally take for a headache can be taken to reduce the pain. Your orthodontist will also advise you of other ways to reduce the discomfort such as using orthodontic wax and eating soft foods.

Yes, most patients, whether teenagers or adults can have lingual braces (braces behind the teeth). Only in rare situations, such as if you have a very severe gag reflex, would it be difficult to have lingual braces.

Yes you can. Wind instruments such as the saxophone and clarinet have mouthpieces that do not come into contact with your braces. The same applies to instruments like the oboe and bassoon.

If you play the flute, you may feel some discomfort, but most people adjust very quickly.

As for brass instruments, because they require mouthpiece pressure, your lips will be pressed between the mouthpiece and your braces. However, with time, most people adjust by playing with less pressure and more air control and breath support.

Sometimes lingual braces are a good alternative to normal braces as they go behind the teeth and do not affect the playing of musical instruments as much as normal braces.

Orthodontic treatment is always tailored to fit your needs, and everyone’s treatment needs are unique. There are always certain cases that require the extraction of teeth to create space to align the teeth and improve the bite. Your orthodontist will only suggest extractions if they are absolutely necessary for the success of your orthodontic treatment.

Most people have braces for about 18-24 months. Some complex cases can even take up to 30-36 months. To avoid prolonging your treatment time, avoid breaking your braces and do not miss any of your appointments. If you break your braces, please call us as soon as possible so that we can repair your braces quickly.

Braces are generally adjusted every 4-8 weeks. Because your treatment is designed to meet your orthodontic treatment needs, there is no exact adjustment interval.