Braces Specialist
Park Orthodontics
Katherine Park, DMD
Orthodontist located in Upper West Side, New York, NY
Having straight teeth and a beautiful smile is important at any age. At her practice in New York City, Dr. Park provides the most advanced braces options to help patients achieve the straighter teeth and healthier, more beautiful smiles they have been dreaming of.
Braces Q&A
What kinds of braces are available?
There are several different types of braces available to help patients of just about any age have the straight. Beautiful teeth and smiles they're hoping for, including traditional metal braces, Invisalign® clear aligners and Incognito® lingual braces that attach to the underside of the teeth so they can't be seen.
Do braces offer more than cosmetic benefits?
Yes, having your teeth straightened can make it much easier to care for them. When your teeth are not properly aligned, food particles, plaque and bacteria can hide more easily, creating more opportunities for gum disease and tooth decay. What's more, teeth that aren't properly aligned can result in bite issues and symptoms like jaw pain and chronic headaches.
How can I decide which type of braces is the best choice for me?
Not all types of braces can treat every type of alignment issue, so having a thorough exam with x-rays is an important part of determining which type is best for you. During a consultation appointment, you can learn about all the available options as well as what's involved in treatment.
How long will I have to wear braces?
That depends on the type of treatment you're having and, more importantly, the underlying issues that are being addressed. Some patients can be treated in a little over a year, while many will require two years of treatment or more.
How often will I have to see the orthodontist for adjustments?
Again, that depends on the issues you're facing. In most cases, you'll visit the office every four to six weeks for an adjustment and evaluation to ensure your treatment is staying on track.
Will I need to wear a retainer?
Yes, a retainer is an important part of helping your teeth stabilize after wearing braces.