Types of Braces
We offer three general types of braces for kids and adults in Arlington, Virginia. These include Mini braces, Ceramic braces, or Hidden (Lingual) braces. For kids, we also have a Growth Monitoring Program. For teens and adults, we also offer Invisalign.
Mini braces are the smallest kind of braces with a unique design to straighten teeth quickly.
Choose from 41 fun colors!
Ceramic braces are a clear orthodontic solution that allows you to confidently live your life while your teeth are being straightened. Many adult patients like this option since the clear ceramic braces are hardly noticeable.
Hidden braces are placed behind the teeth, making them completely invisible. Get the speed of braces with the secrecy of Invisalign.
Watch Dr. Markova give a quick overview of the different options!
Life with Braces in Arlington, VA
Life with our braces is a breeze! Dr. Markova and the entire VCO Orthodontics team are here to make your time with us as easy as possible. There are a few key things to remember when wearing braces.
Keeping Braces Clean
It is extremely important to take extra time keeping teeth clean by having excellent oral hygiene during treatment. Braces will catch food around them and your teeth need to be brushed at least twice daily. Flossing cannot be done with regular floss. Dr. Markova recommends Orthopick Flossers for braces or a Waterpik. Please read this blog post on Keeping Braces Clean.
Foods to Avoid
Any foods that are particulary crunchy or hard will pop off braces. For example, chewing on ice cubes, crunchy pizza crust, pop corn kernels, etc will make brackets fall off your teeth. Use good reason and avoid very hard foods.
Foods that are very sugary and sticky, such a caramel chews and Starburst will be very challenging to clean from all around your braces and might increase the risk for cavities. It is best to avoid these sugary foods.
Sports and Braces
You need to be careful when playing sports with braces and take proper precautions to avoid injury. Ask Dr. Markova about special sports guards for braces for any contact sport. Even traditional "non contact" sports players would benefit from a sports guard to help prevent lip and tooth injury if an accident occurs.
Braces Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is a good time for my child to start braces?
A: Children should be evaluated by an orthodontist around the age of 7 years. This allows careful monitoring of adult teeth coming, jaw development, and growth. Sometimes, interceptive Phase I or early treatment needs to be done to prevent future problems. Many teenagers start braces at different ages, depending on growth and when adult teeth come in - there is a lot of variability between teens, so come in for a full evaluation to decide the best timing.
Q: What are the risks of getting braces?
A: We have a detailed blog post on this topic here. The biggest risk is cavities and white spots that form around braces, if the teeth are not brushed well. Extra time and attention are needed for good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings with your general dentist or pediatric dentist are required.
Q: Do braces hurt?
A: At some point during treatment, you will feel pressure on the teeth are they are moving. Sometimes, there is discomfort with braces, especially within the first few days of getting them as well as after any tightening appointments. The best way to feel more comfortable is to eat softer foods (soups, smoothies, avocado, yogurt, applesauce, soft pasta, etc) for a few days until your mouth gets used to the braces. You can also take an over-the-counter pain medication.
Q: How often do I need to come in for appointments with braces?
A: Dr. Markova will see you every 6-8 weeks.
Q: How long do I need to wear retainers after braces?
A: Retainers are needed to maintain the teeth in a straight position and keep the bite correction. For most people, retainers need to be worn forever. In our office, retainers are worn only at night, making it easy to keep up with wear. Teeth naturally tend to shift as we age, so a retainer is needed long-term. Dr. Markova will discuss different types of retainers with you, such a bonded lower retainer or clear retainer.