FAQ

At Scott Family Orthodontics, we’re committed to keeping our patients informed throughout the journey to a healthier and more confident smile.

Whether you’re seeking braces as an adult, pediatric orthodontics, TMJ therapy, or clear aligner treatment, Dr. Scott and our team are here to guide you every step of the way.

Located in Pueblo, CO, our practice provides orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages. Dr. Scott also treats patients at locations in La Junta and Trinidad, CO.

Schedule your appointment today!

Dental specialist showing x rays to a patient

Common Orthodontic Questions

You or your child may have questions prior to starting orthodontic treatment. If you don’t see a specific question provided below, please contact us today.

Why should you get braces?

Studies show that one of the first things people notice about you is your smile. A spectacular smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontic treatment. It contributes to enhancing and improving a person’s general attitude toward life.

Our teeth serve many other functions. An improper bite and teeth that aren’t straight can compromise the health and function of your smile. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean from harmful plaque that causes decay, bad breath, and gum disease. With a proper bite, the jaw joints perform better with less stress and greater comfort.

What foods should you avoid with braces?

Patients should avoid eating tough meats, hard bread, raw vegetables, candy, and sticky or crunchy foods, such as:

Popcorn/chips
Ice
Caramel
Gum
Nuts
Hard rolls/bagels/pizza crust

Foods you have to bite into, like apples and carrots, must be cut into small pieces prior to consumption. Patients can opt for soft foods like macaroni and cheese, soups, mashed potatoes, pasta, and even ice cream.

What can you expect right after having braces put on?

You may feel general soreness in your mouth, and your teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. If the soreness is severe, take Tylenol or Advil. It is also OK if you take what you normally do for a headache or similar pain.

Until your mouth becomes accustomed to the braces, your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they adjust to the braces. Wax or silicone can help alleviate the discomfort. We will instruct you on how to use these items at the initial placement of braces. Rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouth wash can also help.

Why do your teeth feel loose?

Loose teeth are to be expected throughout orthodontic treatment. Don’t worry ﹣ it’s normal. Teeth must loosen first so that they can be moved. Once treatment is completed, your teeth will again become rigidly fixed in their newly corrected positions, and retainers will function to hold teeth in those positions.

What are the best ways to take care of braces at home?

When you have your braces placed,we will review the proper way to brush and floss in order to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. If you have poor oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment, it will increase the risk of cavities, decalcification of the enamel (white spots), and gum disease.

Flossing is equally important. You will also learn flossing techniques when your braces are placed.

How can I reduce teeth yellowing or “white spot lesions”?

Proper and thorough daily brushing and flossing is the best way to prevent teeth yellowing and decalcified enamel, otherwise known as “white spot lesions”. Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day ﹣ after each meal and before going to bed.

While we make every effort to teach and monitor proper oral hygiene to our patients with braces, we feel that more protection is needed. For this reason, we go to the extra effort and expense of coating the teeth with Opal Seal™. This sealant is clear and colorless and also releases fluoride, a proven strengthener for enamel.

How long will it take to complete orthodontic treatment?

Treatment time varies from patient to patient. The average time frame for orthodontic treatment is generally around 24 months.

Can you still play sports with braces?

Yes. We recommend a mouth guard for all sports, which we provide to our patients.

What Are Our Patients Saying?

“Makes you smile. Both my brother and I got braces here. The staff was super friendly and personable, and even became like friends over my many appointments. They are super good at explaining things and answering questions if you ask. The service itself is excellent ﹣ they know how to work so the patient is comfortable. I would definitely recommend this business to anyone looking for a good experience at the dentist!”
﹣Star G.

Learn more about braces & orthodontic treatment!

Scott Family Orthodontics
1641 Horseshoe Dr
Pueblo, CO 81001

Get Directions

Phone: 719-545-2722
Fax: 719-545-7427
Email Us

Write Us a Review

Google



Like Us On Facebook

Mon: 8:30 AM - 5 PM
Tue: 8:30 AM - 5 PM
Wed: 8:30 AM - 5 PM
Thu: 8:30 AM - 5 PM
Fri: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Sat & Sun: Closed