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Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
Children should receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven, or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist, or the child’s physician. An early evaluation allows us to determine when a child’s particular problem should be treated. In many patients, early treatment provides results that are unattainable once the face and jaws are finished growing.
Absolutely not, age is not a factor! We love our adult patients!
Orthodontic treatment has improved dramatically. As a rule, braces make your teeth sore for a day or 2 after they are placed or adjusted, but it is not “painful”. Today’s braces are smaller and more comfortable. High tech wires move the teeth more efficiently and with less discomfort.
Yes. When teeth are missing, adjacent teeth will drift into the empty space. This often causes functional, esthetic, or periodontal problems. Orthodontic treatment can close the space or provide proper alignment for your dentist to replace the missing teeth.
Having straight teeth that fit together properly improves function. Your teeth and jaw joints can work more efficiently. Straight teeth are easier to clean. The appearance of the smile and face are improved. Having a pleasing smile can improve self-esteem, confidence, and a feeling of acceptance in daily life.
Metal braces are the most popular with our young patients. They love using different colors on the metal braces! We also have gold and clear ceramic braces available at additional cost.
When you consider the benefits last a lifetime, the cost is really quite reasonable. Financing options are available and our office offers payment programs that will likely meet your needs. In addition, we file insurance claims for you!
No, it is not. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, yet many other patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
Upon arriving, each patient and parent will be seen by the staff and doctor who will acclimate you to our office and prepare for the initial exam. We will take the necessary photographs and X-rays to allow us to make a proper diagnosis. The doctor will then complete a brief, but thorough, exam. Read More
There are five essential questions that we will cover during the initial examination:
“Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?”
“What must be done to correct the problem?”
“Will any teeth need to be removed?”
“How long will the treatment take to complete?”
“How much will the treatment cost?”
Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.
Treatment time obviously depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem. In general, treatment times range from 12 to 30 months. The “average” time frame a person is in braces is approximately 22 months.
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every five to 10 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled five to 10 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments. We will, however, make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.
Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in with their patient manager before dropping off their child.
Yes. There is no reason to miss school because of an orthodontic appointment.
No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.
Absolutely not! It is our belief that each patient should be provided with their own braces to achieve the best orthodontic result possible.
Yes. We recommend a mouth guard for all sports.
Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.
Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.
Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss their teeth with braces and may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary.
If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone. If you require an emergency appointment, we will set aside time for you.
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that patient’s growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.
Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 12-21 months. The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem and self-image.
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called the “resting period,” during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.
At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander.
Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.
