Frequently Asked Questions
Braces
Q: How long will I need to wear braces?
A: Treatment time varies depending on your individual needs, but most patients wear braces for 18 to 24 months. We will give you a personalized estimate during your consultation.
Q: Are braces painful?
A: You may experience some discomfort after adjustments, but it’s usually mild and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help during this time.
Q: Can I play sports or musical instruments with braces?
A: Yes! We recommend wearing a mouth guard during sports to protect your braces and teeth. Playing most musical instruments is also fine, though you might need some time to adjust.
Q: Will braces affect my speech?
A: Some patients experience a temporary lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds at first. This usually improves quickly as you adjust.
Q: What should I do if a bracket or band breaks?
A: If a bracket or band breaks, try to keep it in place if possible and contact us right away to schedule a repair appointment. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods to prevent further damage.
Q: What if I lose a separator?
A: Losing a separator is common and usually not a major issue. Contact us so we can replace it promptly to keep your treatment on track.
Q: What can I do about a pokey wire?
A: A pokey wire can be uncomfortable. You can try gently pushing the wire down with a clean Q-tip or covering it with orthodontic wax until you can visit us for an adjustment. If these methods do not work, please contact us so we can schedule an appointment for you.
Clear Aligners
Q: How do clear aligners work?
A: Clear aligners gradually shift your teeth into place using a series of custom-made, removable trays. You wear each set for about 1-2 weeks before moving on to the next.
Q: Can I eat and drink with aligners in?
A: For the best results, you should remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water.
Retainers
Q: Why do I need a retainer after treatment?
A: Retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions and prevent them from shifting back. Wearing your retainer as directed is crucial to maintaining your smile.
Q: How long do I need to wear my retainer?
A: Retainers are a lifelong commitment! To keep your smile looking its best, you’ll need to wear your retainer every night.
Splints
Q: What are splints used for?
A: Splints protect your teeth from grinding or clenching at night, which can cause wear and discomfort. They also help reduce strain on your jaw muscles.
Q: How do I know if I need a splint?
A: If you experience jaw pain, headaches, or notice worn teeth, talk to us about whether a custom splint might be right for you.
Craniofacial and Special Needs Patients
Q: Does Yarkie Orthodontics provide care for craniofacial patients?
A: Yes. Dr. Megan Yarkie is part of the Ascension St. Vincent Craniofacial Team at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital. We work closely with this team to provide specialized orthodontic care for children with cleft lip, cleft palate, and other craniofacial differences.
Q: Do you treat patients from outside the Ascension network?
A: Absolutely. While we are part of the Ascension team, we welcome patients from outside the Ascension system who need expert orthodontic care for craniofacial or special needs conditions.
Q: Do you treat patients with other special needs besides craniofacial conditions?
A: Yes, we have experience treating a variety of special needs patients. Our team adapts treatment plans and appointments to ensure the best possible experience for each patient.
Q: What accommodations do you offer for craniofacial and special needs patients?
A: We provide a private treatment room to help make visits as comfortable and calm as possible. Our staff is experienced in working with special needs patients, offering gentle, individualized care to support each child’s unique needs.
General Questions
Q: Do I still need to see my regular dentist during orthodontic treatment?
A: Yes! Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are important even while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Q: What happens if I miss an appointment?
A: We recommend rescheduling missed appointments as soon as possible to keep your treatment on track. Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to change or cancel your appointment so we can accommodate other patients.
Q: How do I schedule an appointment?
A: Please call our office, and a member of our team will gladly assist you in finding an appointment time that fits your schedule.