We’re introducing Ask Dr. Kurti, a new video series featuring short, straightforward answers to questions from our patients and community.

For more than 40 years, Dr. Ralph Kurti has cared for families in Franklin, Murphy, and the surrounding communities—often treating multiple generations of the same family. He still enjoys getting to know his patients, answering their questions, and helping them achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. Outside the office, he is rarely without a project, although those projects tend to involve much larger equipment.

In our first episode, Dr. Kurti answers two questions about braces.

 

Does it hurt when braces are put on?

Usually, no. Braces are glued to the teeth, so placing them is generally not painful—although, as Dr. Kurti points out, the adhesive doesn’t taste particularly good.

Some patients experience discomfort after their braces are in place. The brackets or wires may temporarily irritate the inside of the lips as the mouth adjusts.

Can braces rust?

One of our younger patients had a very reasonable question: Braces are made of metal, and your mouth is wet, so can they rust?

Dr. Kurti’s short answer: No.

Watch Episode 1 for his complete answers, and check back for more practical orthodontic information in future episodes of Ask Dr. Kurti.

Have a question you’d like him to answer? Send it to us or share it with a member of our team during your next visit.