Dr. Koh and our team believe that an informed patient is a confident patient. The more you understand your treatment, the more comfortable and excited you’ll feel walking through your orthodontic journey. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive Braces FAQ, a straightforward, honest resource that answers the questions we hear most from families, teens, and adults across North Seattle. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or you’re already scheduled for your complimentary consultation, this page is for you.
Braces are orthodontic appliances glued to the surface of each tooth that gradually shift your teeth and jaw into better alignment over time. They work by applying continuous, gentle pressure on your teeth through a system of brackets, archwires, and elastic ties.
Adults are choosing orthodontic treatment more often now than ever before. In fact, more than 1 in 4 orthodontic patients today are adults. Whether you’re addressing long-standing alignment issues or simply wanting to feel more confident in your smile, it’s never too late. We offer discreet options designed to fit seamlessly into your professional and social life.
Your first visit to Koh Orthodontics is complementary and completely pressure-free. Dr. Koh will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and bite, review any X-rays, and take a digital scan of your smile.
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of braces you choose. On average:
LightForce’s precision technology can help streamline treatment in many cases. During your consultation, Dr. Koh will give you a personalized estimate.
Typically, you’ll visit us every 4 to 8 weeks for a check-in and adjustment. Thanks to our KohView remote monitoring system, some of these check-ins can happen virtually from home.
Once your braces are removed, you’ll move into the retention phase. Dr. Koh will fit you with a custom retainer to maintain your new alignment. Retainers are typically worn full-time for several months, then nighttime only going forward. Teeth have a natural tendency to shift throughout life, so consistent retainer wear is the key to protecting your results long-term.
Both braces and Invisalign are excellent options; the right choice depends on your specific case, your lifestyle, and your preferences. Braces (including LightForce) tend to work well for more complex bite and alignment issues, while Invisalign is a great fit for patients who prefer a removable, nearly invisible option. Dr. Koh will walk you through the pros and cons of each during your free consultation, so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Not always, and thanks to advances in orthodontic technology, far fewer patients need extractions today than in the past. Dr. Koh takes a conservative approach and will only recommend removal if it’s truly necessary for the health and alignment of your smile. He’ll be upfront about this from day one.
There’s usually some minor soreness in the first few days after getting braces and after each adjustment appointment. Your teeth are doing real work, after all. Most patients describe it as a feeling of pressure or mild tenderness. The good news? You get used to it quickly, and with LightForce’s custom-fit brackets, many patients report a more comfortable experience overall.
Protecting your brackets means being a little strategic about what you eat. Foods to steer clear of include:
Soft fruits, cooked vegetables, pasta, rice, dairy, and eggs are all great options. Don’t worry, we’ll give you a full care guide at your bonding appointment.
Great oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do during treatment. Here’s what we recommend:
Yes, and we want you to stay active! If you’re involved in contact sports, we strongly recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect both your teeth and your brackets. Dr. Koh can advise you on the best type of guard for your specific treatment.
Don’t panic, it happens, and we’re here to help. If you experience a broken bracket or a wire that’s irritating, give us a call as soon as possible. We provide emergency care.
Braces costs vary depending on the type of treatment, the complexity of your case, and the length of treatment. At Koh Orthodontics, we believe in complete transparency; there are no hidden fees or surprises. During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Koh will review your case and provide a full cost breakdown with flexible pricing tiers to suit different budgets.
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, covering a portion of the cost for both children and adults. Our team will work with you to understand your coverage, maximize your benefits, and clearly explain what your out-of-pocket responsibility will be.
We offer flexible payment plans designed to make quality orthodontic care accessible for every family. Options include in-office payment plans that spread your investment over the course of treatment, as well as third-party financing where available. We’ll help you find what works.
We know orthodontic treatment is a meaningful investment of your time, your trust, and your budget. That’s why Dr. Koh makes it a priority to answer every question you have, thoroughly and without rushing, before any treatment begins.
Your complimentary consultation includes a complete examination, digital scans, and a personalized treatment discussion. No pressure. No commitment. Just honest answers and a clear path forward. Contact us and schedule your consultation today!
At Koh Orthodontics, every smile tells a story. Let’s help you write yours.