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FAQ

1. Do I need a referral from my dentist to see the orthodontist?

No. While many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, it is not necessary to be referred to us or to obtain a referral. Consultations are complimentary (FREE!).

2. At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition.

3. Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?

Most often, 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.

4. How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?

If you or your child can potentially benefit from orthodontic treatment, simply call our office, send us an e-mail or fill out our online appointment request form. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information from you.

5. What will happen at the initial examination appointment?

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.
To read more about your first visit, see our Complimentary Consultation page.

6. What will I learn from the initial examination?

There are six 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?
  • When is the best time to begin treatment?
  • Will any teeth need to be removed?
  • How long will the treatment take to complete?
  • How much will the treatment cost and how much will insurance cover?

7. Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?

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.

8. How long will it take to complete treatment?

Treatment time depends on each patient's specific orthodontic treatment plan.  Many variables, such as crowding, spacing, bite, and age, are considered when estimating the treatment length. The "average" time frame a person is in braces or Invisalign clear aligners is approximately 18-24 months.

9. How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?

Since orthodontic treatment plans vary based on individual needs, it is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have completed an examination. We will cover the cost and financial options during the initial consultation. We offer several financing options to accommodate your needs and we work with most insurance companies. Our team is happy to review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims.

10. How often will I have appointments?

Appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs. Most patients in braces or Invisalign clear aligners will be seen every 6-8 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.

11. Can I drop my child off for an appointment?

Yes. We understand your time is valuable and schedules are very busy, 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 our team before dropping off their child.

12. Do braces hurt?

Generally, braces do not "hurt." After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all!

13. Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?

Yes. Most patients are comfortable enough to return to school the same day braces are placed on the teeth and many are excited to show off their new braces smile!

14. Do you give shots?

No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.

15. Do you use recycled braces?

Absolutely not! It is our belief that each patient should be provided with their own braces to achieve the best orthodontic result possible.

16. Can I still play sports?

Absolutely!  However, we recommend a mouth guard for all sports in order to protect the lips, gums, cheeks, and braces.

17. Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?

Yes! Regular check-ups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.

18. Are there foods I cannot eat while I have 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). By carefully following our instructions regarding no-no foods, you can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces.

19. How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?

Patients should brush their teeth at least three 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.  Proper brushing and flossing is VERY IMPORTANT while wearing orthodontic appliances in order to avoid causing permanent damage to the teeth.

20. What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?

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.

21. Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?

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.

22. What is Phase One (early) treatment?

Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 12-20 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.  Read more about Phase One treatment.

23. Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?

It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase 1 treatment. The period following Phase 1 treatment is called the "resting period," during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, patients will be monitored on a periodic basis (typically every 6-9 months) to closely watch the tooth development and determine if/when Phase 2 treatment will be needed.

24. Will my child need an expander?

At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander.  While some patients may benefit from the use of a palatal expander, not all patients will need one.

25. Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?

No!  A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is "too old" to wear braces!

26. Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?

Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.  If you are considering a dental implant, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to create proper spacing of the teeth in preparation for placement of the dental implant.

27. Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?

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.

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