Orthodontics FAQ - Atlantis Dental

Orthodontic treatment focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaw irregularities to improve function and appearance. Patients of all ages, from children to adults, can benefit from orthodontics to achieve a healthier and more confident smile.

At our dental office in Framingham, MA, Dr. Sumbul Naqvi offers various treatment options to meet individual patient needs. These include traditional braces, clear aligners, and other advanced orthodontic solutions designed to effectively straighten teeth.

If you experience crowding, gaps, an overbite, an underbite, or difficulty chewing, a consultation with our orthodontic field specialist can determine if treatment is necessary. Early intervention can prevent more complex dental issues in the future.

Braces help correct misalignment, improve bite function, and enhance overall oral health. In addition to achieving a straighter smile, orthodontic care can also prevent issues such as excessive wear on teeth, jaw pain, and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene.

The duration of treatment varies based on the severity of misalignment and the chosen treatment options. While some patients may complete their orthodontic care in as little as six months, others may require up to two years or more for optimal results.

No, Simply Orthodontics Framingham is a separate practice. However, Atlantis Dental provides high-quality orthodontic care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our focus is on delivering personalized treatment in a welcoming environment.

Scheduling a consultation is the first step! Contact our dental office in Framingham to meet Dr. Naqvi and discuss your orthodontic treatment options. We’ll evaluate your needs and create a customized treatment plan to achieve your ideal smile.

We offer Fastbraces®, a modern metal braces system that moves teeth faster than traditional braces. We also offer clear aligner therapy — a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth using custom-made removable trays.

Dr. Naqvi is an expert in clear aligner therapy and has successfully completed over 400 clear aligner cases, including crowding, gaps, open bites, deep bites, and more. Almost all patients qualify. During your consultation, Dr. Naqvi will review your specific needs and show you real before-and-after cases. See our smile gallery here

Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires fixed to the teeth, requiring visits every 3–4 weeks. They’re effective but harder to clean and limit your food choices. Clear aligners are removable, comfortable, and nearly invisible. At Atlantis Dental, most aligner patients only need 4 in-office visits, with remote monitoring between — perfect for busy adults, students, or travelers.

Fastbraces®: Typically 12–24 months depending on case complexity.

Clear Aligners: Many of Dr. Naqvi’s patients finish in just 6 to 9 months thanks to her customized protocols.

Braces: Every 3–4 weeks for adjustments.

Aligners: Only four visits total — records, aligner fitting, mid-treatment progress (if needed), and final check with retainers. All other monitoring is done virtually through our app, which reports directly to Dr. Naqvi.

Avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods like gum, caramel, hard nuts, and popcorn. These can damage your braces and cause delays.

Yes! Just remove your aligners before eating and brush before putting them back in. You can enjoy all your favorite foods without restrictions.

Use an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic head, floss threaders or orthodontic floss, and a water flosser to clean between brackets and wires.

Rinse and brush them gently with your toothbrush each time you brush. For deeper cleaning, use aligner cleaning crystals or tablets.

Yes. Some pressure or soreness is expected, especially with adjustments or new aligner trays. This is temporary and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

Take ibuprofen or Tylenol as needed. If the pain persists or you have a broken bracket or sharp wire, call our office immediately for help.

Wear them for 23 hours a day — only removing them to eat and brush. In some cases, Dr. Naqvi may advise keeping them in while eating for patients with very heavy bites.

Put them back in as soon as possible. If they feel tight, that’s normal. If a tray no longer fits, move to the next one and call the office. Delays in wear can extend treatment time.

Yes! Just wear a mouthguard with braces during contact sports. Aligners should be removed while playing wind instruments or sports if they interfere.

Straight teeth are easier to clean and less prone to decay and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment also reduces bite-related tooth wear and fractures, helps prevent future dental work like crowns or implants, and supports a healthier, longer-lasting smile.