Braces FAQs
Dr. Freeman answers the most common questions about braces, from how they work and daily wear to timelines, comfort, and care.
Getting started is easy: book a complimentary consultation. Dr. Freeman examines your teeth, takes a digital 3D scan, reviews your options, and gives you a personalized plan and exact pricing, with no obligation.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first check-up by age 7. Most 7-year-olds won't need treatment yet, but an early exam lets Dr. Freeman spot crowding, missing or extra teeth, or a developing bite issue while it's easiest to guide. There's also no upper age limit, and we treat teens and adults every day.
The cost depends on your specific needs and treatment plan, so we give you an exact price after your complimentary consultation, with no surprises. Many dental plans cover part of orthodontic treatment, and our team handles the billing for you. We also offer interest-free in-house monthly plans and financing through CareCredit.
Most patients wear braces for about 12 to 24 months, though your timeline depends on your age, the complexity of your bite, and how closely you follow your care instructions. At your consultation, Dr. Freeman gives you a personalized estimate.
Most patients come in every 6 to 8 weeks so we can adjust your braces and check your progress. Visits are quick, and because we're a private practice, you'll see Dr. Freeman and the same familiar team each time.
Yes. Teeth naturally drift over time, so a retainer holds your new smile in place while everything settles. We fit you for a custom retainer and show you exactly how and when to wear it to keep your results for life.
Not much. You can eat most foods (cut them small and skip the hard, sticky ones), keep playing sports with a mouthguard, and go about school and work as normal. The biggest change is spending a little extra time brushing and flossing.
Steer clear of hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can bend wires or pop off brackets, including caramel, taffy, gum, popcorn, nuts, ice, and hard candy. Cut crunchy foods like apples and carrots into small pieces.
Absolutely. We recommend an orthodontic mouthguard during contact sports to protect your braces and mouth. If you play a wind or brass instrument, there may be a short adjustment period, but most musicians adapt quickly.
Braces shouldn't be painful. You may feel tenderness or pressure for a few days after they're placed and after adjustments, as your teeth begin to move. Over-the-counter pain relievers, soft foods, and orthodontic wax usually keep any discomfort mild and short-lived.
Brush after every meal, angling the brush to clean above and below each bracket, and floss daily with a floss threader or interdental brush to reach under the wire. Good habits prevent staining and white spots, so your smile looks great the day the braces come off.
Loose brackets and poking wires are common and rarely an emergency. Cover any sharp spot with orthodontic wax and call our office so we can schedule a quick repair. For evenings and weekends, our patients have access to a direct emergency line.
Dr. Freeman will help you find out if Invisalign is right for you at your complimentary consultation.
Let's Get You Smiling
The easiest way to schedule your complimentary consultation is to give us a call. Our friendly team can answer your questions, help you find a convenient appointment time and make the whole process quick and easy.
Or call (954) 772-1600Contacting us after business hours? Leave your details below and we'll personally reach out the next business day to schedule your visit.
