Frequently Asked Questions
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist that undergoes an extra three years of training after completing dental school. Their additional training focuses on learning how to safety and properly move teeth in order to correct bites and occlusions, correct misaligned jaw structures, and improve the appearance and function of your smile.
Why should I choose a board certified orthodontic specialist?
Board certification is the highest level of professional achievement for an orthodontist. Board certification is achieved by successfully completing a scenario-based written examination and a clinical examination that tests an orthodontist’s knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities. If you are seeking orthodontic treatment, choosing a board certified orthodontist will ensure the best possible outcome of your smile.
Do I need a referral from my dentist to schedule an appointment?
No, you do not need a referral to be seen in our clinic. You may contact us at (507) 779-7139 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Is it necessary to remove teeth in orthodontic treatment?
Extractions are usually not necessary for orthodontic treatment. Occasionally, teeth may need to be pulled to prevent excess crowding or other problems from occurring. Dr. Hulwi will do everything possible to correct your alignment without any extractions.
What are my treatment options?
At Orthodontic Specialists of Southern Minnesota, we offer metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners.
What is an iTero Scanner?
An iTero Scanner is a touch-enabled scanner that digitally captures the structure of your teeth and gums.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
Along with The American Board of Orthodontics, we recommend that your child have their first orthodontic evaluation at age seven. This appointment is meant to identify growth issues and prevent more severe orthodontic complications from developing. It is likely that your child will not need braces at this time and instead we will continue to monitor your child’s orthodontic with complimentary check-in appointments.
What is phase 1 orthodontics?
Phase 1 orthodontics refers to orthodontic treatment when a child still has some of their baby teeth and before all of their permanent teeth have erupted. It may be easy to think that misaligned baby teeth are harmless since they’ll fall out eventually, but that’s not completely true. That’s why when Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is utilized, the baby teeth present can play an important path for the eruption of permanent teeth. While Phase 1 orthodontics is not necessary for most children, it can prevent small problems from becoming much larger problems in the future when it is needed.
After Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, the braces are removed and the child’s mouth will continue to develop until it is time to begin Phase 2, usually at least a year later. Phase 2 treatment will correct any remaining issues with the permanent teeth, which should be significantly decreased due to Phase 1 treatment. In some cases, Phase 2 may not be needed if Phase 1 resolved all of the child’s orthodontic needs.
Will teeth straighten as they grow?
It’s not uncommon for permanent teeth to come in crooked or misaligned. While it would be wonderful if teeth straightened themselves out with time, it is unlikely. Crooked teeth are often a result of inadequate spacing in a child’s mouth for the permanent teeth that are erupting. In general, permanent teeth are larger than baby teeth and they erupt in anyway they can. This means that they are often rotated or impacted in inappropriate places in the mouth. Without orthodontic intervention, these teeth will not straighten out on their own.
What should I expect at an initial consultation appointment?
Upon arriving, you will be greeted by our front desk staff and asked to fill out the dental history of the patient. You will also meet with an orthodontic assistant and Dr. Hulwi to discuss your orthodontic concerns. During your appointment we will cover:
Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
Is the patient ready for treatment, if treatment is needed?
What is the best option for orthodontic treatment?
How long will treatment take to complete?
How much is the cost of treatment and payment options? We can also determine if you have any orthodontic benefit through your insurance at this time.
What's the difference between traditional metal braces and clear braces?
The main difference between traditional metal braces and clear braces is appearance. Clear braces use clear ceramic brackets and clear braces bands to match your teeth. Traditional metal braces have more visible brackets and you can change your braces band colors at each appointment.
What are the main benefits of clear aligners?
Clear aligners have many benefits that are different than traditional braces. Since they are removable plastic trays, they are more comfortable, more cosmetically appealing, and have simpler maintenance. Because you remove the aligners when you eat and drink, you do not have any food restictions. It also makes it easier to keep your teeth clean since you can take out the aligners to brush and floss.
Is everyone a candidate for clear aligners?
Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for clear aligners. Clear aligners are an excellent solution for mild to moderate orthodontic cases. More severe orthodontic cases that require significant adjustments are typically suited for traditional braces. During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Hulwi will evaluate your orthodontic needs and determine if you are a good candidate for clear aligners.
How do I know what the best option is for me?
During your consultation, Dr. Hulwi will explain the difference between metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners. He will also let you know if you are a candidate for clear aligners or if braces is a better course of treatment. Ultimately, the decision between metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners (if you are a candidate) is a personal choice.
How often will I have appointments?
Appointments are scheduled based on each person’s needs, but you can expect to have an orthodontic appointment once every 6-10 weeks.
Can I return to school the same day I get braces?
Absolutely!
How long does it take to get braces on?
During your appointment, we will cover everything you need to know about caring for your teeth and your braces throughout treatment. We ask that you plan about an hour and a half for your braces-on appointment.
Can I play sports with braces?
Yes! We recommend wearing a mouth guard for all sports. We recommend using the Shock Doctor mouth guard and not boil and bite since it could easily adhere to the braces when biting down.
Is there any candy I can still eat while in braces?
Yes, there is still candy that you can eat without damaging your braces! We recommend chocolate (without caramel or nuts), peanut butter cups, KitKats, and soft cookies.
What will happen to my braces if I eat the wrong foods?
The most common issue with eating the wrong foods while in braces is loosening or breaking of a bracket. If this happens, do not panic. Contact our office and we will get it fixed for you.
Do I need to see my dentist while in braces?
Yes! Regular dental visits are important and can be done while in braces.
How often should I brush my teeth with braces?
In addition to brushing your teeth in the morning and at night, you should also brush your teeth after meals to prevent plaque from forming.
Can I use regular floss with braces?
Yes, you can use regular floss when you have braces. It may take some practice getting used to flossing with braces. You may also use an orthodontic flosser, floss threader, or a waterpik that may make flossing with braces easier.
How do you brush your teeth with braces?
Use a soft toothbrush and brush at a 45-degree angle to the tooth in small circles above and below the brackets. Your toothbrush will wear out faster because of your appliances, so be sure to replace it whenever the bristles start to fray.
Why is it important to brush and floss when you have braces?
Braces make it more difficult to brush away plaque build-up, food particles, and bacteria since brackets and wires provide them more places to hide, which makes it even more important to maintain good oral hygiene while in braces. Brushing and flossing regularly will prevent cavities, tooth decay, gingivitis, and gum disease.