Your Top Questions About Orthodontic Treatment in Austin, Answered
At Rise & Smile Orthodontics, we know that starting orthodontic treatment—whether for yourself or your child—comes with plenty of questions. From the cost of braces to what to expect at your first visit, we’re here to make every step of the journey simple and stress-free.
Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we hear from parents and patients across Austin, TX.
General Orthodontics
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on aligning teeth and jaws to improve both function and appearance. While dentists handle overall oral health, cleanings, and restorations, orthodontists complete additional years of specialized training to perfect smiles using braces, Invisalign, and other appliances.
We recommend scheduling your child’s first orthodontic evaluation around age seven. At this stage, we can identify subtle jaw or bite issues early—even before all adult teeth have erupted—and determine whether early treatment might be beneficial.
Absolutely not! Many of our Austin patients are adults seeking a confident smile later in life. With modern options like clear aligners and ceramic braces, orthodontic treatment is more discreet and comfortable than ever.
A beautiful smile is just the start. Orthodontic treatment also improves your bite, makes oral hygiene easier, prevents uneven wear on teeth, and enhances long-term dental health.
Treatment Options
We offer a variety of orthodontic treatments, including traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and Invisalign clear aligners. Each option is customized to fit your goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth into position. You’ll wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next one. It’s an excellent choice for patients who want a nearly invisible and flexible way to straighten their teeth.
That depends on your goals and the complexity of your case. Braces can address a wider range of orthodontic issues, while Invisalign is great for mild to moderate alignment needs. During your consultation, we’ll help you determine which treatment fits your lifestyle best.
Every smile is different, but most treatments last between 12 and 24 months. We’ll provide a personalized timeline at your first consultation so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Yes! Retainers are essential to maintain your new smile and prevent your teeth from shifting back. We’ll guide you through how long and how often to wear them once your braces or aligners are removed.
Appointments & Process
Your first visit to Rise & Smile Orthodontics is all about getting to know you and your smile goals. We’ll take digital scans and photos, perform a full orthodontic evaluation, and discuss treatment options. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your next steps—no pressure, just honest advice.
You’ll typically visit our Austin office every 6–10 weeks so we can monitor your progress and make adjustments. We’ll work with your schedule to keep visits convenient.
Yes! If you prefer to explore your options from home, our team can walk you through a virtual consultation before your first in-person visit.
You can request a free consultation right on our website or by calling our Austin office. We’re happy to help you find a time that fits your family’s schedule.
Comfort & Lifestyle
When you first get your braces or aligners, you might feel mild soreness as your teeth begin to move. This usually lasts just a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief or a soft diet.
Yes! You can continue doing all the activities you love. If you play contact sports, we recommend a custom mouthguard for extra protection.
Sticky, crunchy, and chewy foods—like popcorn, caramel, or nuts—can damage brackets or wires. Soft foods are your best friend in the first few days after getting braces.
Don’t worry! Contact our office right away, and we’ll schedule a quick repair appointment. Avoid adjusting it yourself to prevent discomfort or damage.
Office-Specific Questions
You can find Rise & Smile Orthodontics conveniently located in Austin, TX. Visit our Austin orthodontic office page for directions and hours.
Our hours are designed to accommodate busy families. Check our website for the most up-to-date schedule before your appointment.
Yes! We proudly treat patients of all ages—from early childhood through adulthood. It’s never too early or too late to love your smile.
At Rise & Smile Orthodontics, our focus goes beyond just straightening teeth. Dr. Faulkner and our team take the time to understand your goals, explain every step of the process, and make your experience enjoyable. You’ll always feel like family when you walk through our doors.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
If you’re ready to explore your orthodontic options, we’d love to meet you! Schedule your free consultation at Rise & Smile Orthodontics in Austin, TX, and take the first step toward a confident new smile.