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Frequently Asked Questions: At what age should I schedule and appointment for an orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends an orthodontic screening at age seven. By age seven most children have several permanent teeth allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition. Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
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. What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
Upon arriving, each patient will fill out new patient forms with insurance information. Then the doctor will complete a thorough clinical exam. X-rays and photos will also be taken in order for the doctor to properly assess your diagnosis. What will I learn from the initial examination?
During the examination the most important questions will be answered. They include: Is there an orthodontic problem and is 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? And how much will the treatment cost? Will I need to have teeth extracted for my braces?
Removing teeth is sometimes required for 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. How long will it take to complete treatment?
Treatment time obviously depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem. In general Stage I or Early treatment last for approximately 8-12 months. For full braces also known as Stage II generally last for approximately 20-26 months. How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?
It is impossible to give any patient the exact cost for treatment until you are examined. During the initial examination we will cover the exact cost as well as financial options. We have several financial options to accommodate your needs, and we will review these options with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims. Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not “hurt”. After certain visits your 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 experience any soreness at all. Can I still play sports?
Yes, you can still play sports. We just recommend that you wear a mouth guard when playing any sport. Do I need to see my family dentist while in treatment for braces?
YES! Regular checkups with your dentist are important while being treated for braces. Your dentist will determine the intervals for your cleaning appointments while you are in braces. Are there certain foods I can not eat while I have braces?
YES! Once your treatment begins, we will explain complete instructions and provide you with 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). How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?
Patients should brush their teeth four times a day while in braces, once after each meal and then right before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss their teeth with braces. Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
NO! A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. It’s never too late to have braces. Health, happiness, and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is “too old”.
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