Braces FAQ

A: Getting your braces put on is painless and typically takes less than an hour. First, we polish your teeth and prime the tooth surface for the special adhesive we use. Dr. Kothari then sticks the brackets on each individual tooth. The glue is super strong and ensures your braces stay in place throughout your treatment. He wraps up the process by threading your archwire through the brackets. If you want to go bold, you can add colorful elastics to your braces too. Before you leave, a 914 Smiles team member will tell you exactly how to care for your braces and what to expect during the early days of your treatment.

A: Every patient is unique and it will depend on your individual case. However, in general, braces treatment takes between one and two years. When you come in for your free consultation and Dr. Kothari has a chance to examine you, he can give you a specific timeframe.

A: The cost of braces depends on a variety of factors, including how complex your case is. However, we strive to make braces affordable for our patients. We accept most insurances, offer in-office, zero-interest financing and have flexible payment plans. To find out your exact braces cost, book a free consultation. Once we have a diagnosis and treatment plan, we can give you an accurate number.

We accept the following insurance:
Aetna (PPO)
Metlife
Healthplex – (PPO, MVP)
UHC
Dentaquest (Fidelis, Emblem Health, Affinity)
Cigna
Delta Dental
GHI (Emblem Health)
Dentemax
Guardian
Liberty Dental
Empire BCBS
Solstice
CSEA
United Concordia 
UFT

A: No. You should never feel actual braces pain. However, when you first get your braces put on and after we tighten them, your teeth and gums can be a little tender. You can easily manage any discomfort with an over-the-counter pain reliever like Tylenol and by opting for soft foods and cold drinks until it goes away.

A: For most treatment plans, you’ll swing by for an appointment every six to eight weeks. However, this varies depending on your needs. These visits are fast and we strive to have minimal wait times.

A: Taking your braces off is also painless and simple. Dr. Kothari loosens and removes your brackets and wires using special tools. He then gets rid of any leftover adhesive and polishes your teeth. Of course, we’ll let you check out your new smile in the mirror. Look as long as you want (we won’t judge!).

A: Getting braces just on your bottom teeth or top teeth is known as single arch treatment. There are very specific cases where it’s a possibility, however, a number of factors have to line up for it to be effective. We’ll determine if you’re a candidate at your consultation.

A: No! You’re never too old to get a smile you love. In fact, nearly 30% of all orthodontic patients in the U.S. and Canada are over the age of 18. We have plenty of Tarrytown adult braces patients at our practice and each year, the number increases. The benefits of having straight teeth aren’t just cosmetic. Braces can improve your oral health and your confidence. If you’re not into the idea of metal braces, we offer esthetic options at our practice, including clear braces and clear aligners. To find out how we can help you get your dream smile at any age, schedule a free consultation by calling or texting us at (914) 332-0900.

A: Yes. It’s actually even more important to see your regular dentist when you have braces since the brackets and wires can trap food and plaque. Your dentist will ensure you’re brushing and flossing properly and that you’re cavity-free. It’s usually recommended that you see your general dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and cleaning. For children and teens, we offer pediatric dentistry in Tarrytown at 914 Smiles for the ultimate in convenience. Our board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Reshma Kumar, and our certified specialist in orthodontics, Dr. Rishi Kothari, care for smiles in one location.

A: When you’re wearing braces, you should brush your teeth in the morning, after meals and snacks, and before bed. Brush for at least two minutes each time. If you’re not home and you forget your toothbrush, rinse your mouth out really well and then brush when you get home.