FAQs

Orthodontics is a specialized form of dentistry that focuses on dental and facial abnormalities.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience after dental school.

Your orthodontist can straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.

Selecting an orthodontist in Cranberry Township who can help you achieve your smile dreams is important. Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities.

They receive an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

Dr. Rhoads from Rhoads Orthodontic Specialist has achieved this specialization and is an active member of the AAO.

There’s no wrong time for a great smile. If you want to improve your smile, any age is a great time to see an orthodontist.

Children should visit an orthodontist around age seven. Any teen or adult who wants a better smile can start their treatment when they’re ready.

Braces are used by your orthodontist to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:

• Invisalign
• Ceramic braces
• Lingual braces
• Self-ligating braces
• Invisible braces
• Traditional metal braces

This can be determined through a free consultation at our Cranberry Township office.

Braces do not usually hurt, but you may feel a little discomfort for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.

Patients who need orthodontic treatment generally have one to three years of active treatment.

• Always remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
• Use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your orthodontist or family if you need a fluoride rinse. This helps 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 it doesn’t get lost or broken.
• Keep your retainer clean by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You can also use denture cleaner. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
• During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar because it increases the number of bacteria that grow in your mouth, causing more plaque and possible cavities.
• Avoid sticky and chewy foods, hard foods, or any foods that could get stuck in your braces.
• Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.

You should brush your teeth at least three times a day while you are wearing braces.

This will help remove any food that may be caught between your braces, which will keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean.

You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn’t able to reach. Dr. Rhoads can show you how to properly brush and floss with braces on.

Yes. It’s even more important that you go to your dentist regularly. With braces, food may get 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 Dr. Rhoads to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy while you’re wearing braces.

Wearing braces won’t stop you from participating in any of your school activities. You may have to adjust a little.

If you play a contact sport, you should wear a mouthguard to protect your braces.

Call us! Our front desk staff with help you schedule your next appointment when it is convenient for you.

If you’re a new patient or have been referred to our practice, let us know and we’ll make sure you have all of the information you need.