How Old Do You Have to Be to Get Braces? Age Guide for Parents (2026)

Children can get braces as early as age 7 for early intervention, but most kids get full braces between ages 9 and 14. There is no maximum age for braces. Adults of any age can straighten their teeth and improve their bite with orthodontic treatment. The best time to get braces depends on your child’s […]
How Long Does Invisalign Take? Treatment Timeline

Invisalign takes 12 to 18 months on average, though treatment can range from 6 months for minor cases to 24 months or more for complex corrections. Your exact timeline depends on what needs to be fixed and how consistently you wear your aligners. At BP Smiles Orthodontics in Queens, we provide a personalized treatment estimate […]
How Much Do Braces Cost? Price Guide for Queens Families (2026)

Braces typically cost between $2,500 and $6,000 in Queens, NY. The exact price depends on whether you need comprehensive treatment and which type of brackets you choose, such as metal, ceramic, or lingual braces. At BP Smiles Orthodontics, we offer flexible payment plans and work with most insurance providers to make orthodontic treatment affordable for […]
Does Invisalign Hurt? What to Expect During Treatment

Invisalign does not hurt, but you will feel pressure and mild discomfort, especially during the first few days of treatment and when switching to a new set of aligners. This pressure is completely normal and means your teeth are moving. Most patients describe the sensation as tightness rather than pain, and it typically fades within […]
How Long Do Braces Take? Treatment Timeline for Queens Patients (2026)

Braces take 12 to 24 months on average, with most patients wearing them for about 18 months. However, treatment time can range from as little as 6 months for minor corrections to 36 months or longer for complex cases. The exact duration depends on your age, the severity of your orthodontic issues, and how well […]
Does Insurance Cover Braces? What Parents Need to Know (2025)

Yes, many dental insurance plans cover braces. Most orthodontic coverage pays around 50% of the treatment cost up to a lifetime maximum, typically between $1,000 and $3,000. However, coverage varies significantly between plans, and some policies only cover orthodontics for children under 18. Understanding your insurance benefits before starting treatment helps you plan financially and […]
What Can You Eat With Braces? Safe Foods and What to Avoid (2025)

You can eat most foods with braces. Soft fruits, cooked vegetables, pasta, rice, soft bread, dairy products, eggs, tender meats, and seafood are all safe choices. The main foods to avoid are hard, sticky, and crunchy items that can break brackets or get stuck in wires. Learning what to eat with braces does not have […]
Is Invisalign Worth It? Honest Pros and Cons | BP Smiles Queens

Yes, Invisalign is worth it for most patients who want straighter teeth without the look and feel of metal braces. The investment pays off in improved confidence, better oral health, and a smile you will have for the rest of your life. However, whether Invisalign is right for you depends on your specific case, budget, […]
Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite? What to Know

Yes, Invisalign can fix most overbites. Clear aligners effectively treat mild to moderate overbites by gradually shifting your teeth and improving how your upper and lower teeth fit together. For severe overbites caused by jaw structure issues, additional treatment may be needed, but many patients achieve excellent overbite correction with Invisalign alone. If you have […]
Do Braces Hurt?

Getting braces put on does not hurt. The process of bonding brackets to your teeth is completely painless with no needles or drilling involved. However, you will feel soreness and pressure for 3 to 5 days after your braces are placed and for 1 to 3 days after each adjustment appointment. This discomfort is normal, […]