Orthodontic FAQs

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry focused on the alignment and positioning of the teeth and jaws and the way they work together. Orthodontic treatment can improve crowded or spaced teeth, bite problems, tooth position, and overall smile function and appearance.

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?

No, a referral is not required to schedule an orthodontic consultation at Granite Peak Orthodontics. You can contact our Missoula office directly to schedule a complimentary consultation and discuss your orthodontic needs, treatment options, and whether orthodontic treatment is recommended.

We also work closely with general dentists and other dental professionals when coordination of care is needed. If you have an existing dental condition or your orthodontic treatment requires additional dental care, we can communicate with your dentist to help coordinate your treatment.

When should I see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. An early evaluation does not necessarily mean that treatment is needed right away. It allows the orthodontist to monitor dental and jaw development and determine the appropriate time for treatment, if treatment is needed.

Can adults get braces?

Yes. Adults can get braces and other forms of orthodontic treatment at any age. At Granite Peak Orthodontics in Missoula, Montana, we provide orthodontic treatment for adults who want to improve the alignment of their teeth, correct bite concerns, or improve the appearance and function of their smile.

Adults may seek orthodontic treatment for crowded or spaced teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, teeth that have shifted over time, or changes following previous orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics may also be recommended to create space for a dental implant, improve tooth positioning before restorative treatment, or address certain functional concerns.

Adult treatment options may include traditional braces, customized LightForce™ 3D-printed braces, Invisalign® clear aligners, or Granite Peak Aligners in select cases. The appropriate treatment depends on your individual teeth, bite, dental health, and treatment goals.

If you're considering braces as an adult, a complimentary consultation at Granite Peak Orthodontics can help determine whether orthodontic treatment is appropriate and which treatment option may be best for you.

Orthodontic treatment can benefit children, teens, and adults. It is never too late to have an orthodontic evaluation and learn about your treatment options.

Can I get braces if I have crowns or dental implants?

Yes. Many adults with existing dental restorations candidates for braces or clear aligners.

Natural teeth with crowns can generally be moved with orthodontic treatment, although special consideration may be needed when placing brackets on a crown or planning tooth movement around an existing restoration.

Dental implants are different because an implant is fixed to the surrounding bone and cannot be moved orthodontically like a natural tooth. However, orthodontic treatment can often be planned around an existing implant or used to move surrounding natural teeth to improve spacing, alignment, or the overall position of the teeth.

In some cases, orthodontic treatment is recommended before a dental implant or other dental restoration is completed to create or preserve the appropriate space and establish an ideal foundation for restorative treatment.

Working With Your Dentist

Orthodontic treatment is often part of a larger dental treatment plan. Dr. McDonough works closely with your general dentist and other dental specialists when orthodontic treatment needs to be coordinated with crowns, implants, bridges, or other restorative care.

If you are already working with your dentist to plan restorative treatment, your dentist may refer you to Granite Peak Orthodontics to improve the position or spacing of your teeth before completing the restoration. Orthodontic treatment can help create the space, alignment, and bite relationship needed for your dentist to achieve the best possible restorative result.

Your dentist and Dr. McDonough can communicate throughout treatment to coordinate the timing and goals of your care. This collaborative approach helps ensure that your orthodontic and restorative treatments work together as part of your overall dental plan.

A consultation at Granite Peak Orthodontics in Missoula, Montana can help determine whether orthodontic treatment is appropriate for you and how your existing dental work may affect your treatment plan.

What types of orthodontic treatment are available?

At Granite Peak Orthodontics in Missoula, Montana, we offer several orthodontic treatment options, including:

Traditional metal braces
LightForce™ fully customized 3D-printed braces
Invisalign® clear aligners
Granite Peak Aligners, in select cases

Dr. McDonough will recommend a treatment approach based on your individual teeth, bite, orthodontic needs, and treatment goals.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Most comprehensive orthodontic treatment takes approximately 12–24 months, although treatment time varies from patient to patient. The length of treatment depends on factors such as the complexity of the orthodontic case, treatment approach, dental development, and how well treatment instructions are followed.

Dr. McDonough will provide an estimated treatment timeline during your consultation with his goal to get the results you want as quickly as possible.

Do braces hurt?

Braces do not typically cause significant pain, but mild soreness or pressure is common when braces are first placed and following some adjustments. This discomfort usually improves within a few days as your mouth adjusts.

If you experience significant or persistent discomfort, contact our office so we can determine whether an adjustment is needed.

How do I care for my teeth during orthodontic treatment?

Good oral hygiene is especially important while wearing braces or other orthodontic appliances. To keep your teeth and gums healthy during treatment:

Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day.
Floss or use an orthodontic-friendly interdental cleaning method daily.
Use fluoride toothpaste.
Limit hard, sticky, and sugary foods that can damage appliances or contribute to tooth decay.
Continue regular dental exams and professional cleanings with your dentist.

Do I still need to see my dentist while I have braces?

Yes. Orthodontic treatment does not replace regular dental care. Your general dentist should continue to monitor your teeth and gums and provide routine examinations, cleanings, and any necessary dental treatment throughout orthodontic treatment.

Dr. McDonough and your general dentist will work together to help maintain your overall oral health.

Can I play sports or participate in activities while wearing braces?

Yes. Most patients can continue participating in sports, music, and other activities while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

If you play a wind or brass instrument, Dr. McDonough can also provide guidance for adapting to braces.

What happens at an orthodontic consultation?

During your consultation, we evaluate your teeth, bite, dental development, and orthodontic concerns to determine whether treatment is recommended. We will discuss your treatment options, estimated treatment timeline, and other considerations so you can make an informed decision about your orthodontic care.

How do I schedule an orthodontic consultation?

Contact Granite Peak Orthodontics in Missoula, Montana to schedule your complimentary consultation. Our team will help you find an appointment time that works for you and answer any questions you may have before your visit.