FAQ | Orthodontic Excellence

FAQ

Why is choosing an orthodontic specialist the best idea for me?

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry which means that every orthodontist is a dentist, but not every dentist is an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dentist who has graduated from an orthodontic residency program where he or she has received extensive specialist training after dental school. It’s about more than just teeth. Sometimes entire facial structures are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. Because of this, it is important that your treatment be completed properly by an orthodontic specialist. Orthodontic specialists have extensive, specialized training that gives them the skills they need to provide professional, personalized treatments to each patient.

Is a referral from my family dentist required?

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.

Are braces or Invisalign expensive? What are my financing options? Does my insurance cover anything?

The cost of treatment depends on the complexity of each unique case. Invisalign costs the same as traditional braces. During the initial consultation, we will cover the cost and our interest-free financing options. We will also review your insurance policy in order to help you maximize your benefits and file your claims.

What do I need to do to get started with Invisalign or braces?

Our initial consultation is offered at no charge and is necessary to determine your treatment plan. Schedule your complimentary consultation by tapping on the Book Online button at the top of the screen.

What happens at the initial consultation?

When you arrive for your initial consultation, you will be seen by one of our treatment coordinators. They will give you an office tour and after the necessary photographs and x-rays are taken, the doctor will complete a thorough exam. We will assess: -What, if any, are the orthodontics problems? -What steps must be taken to correct the problems? -What are the treatment options? -How long will it take to complete treatment? -How much will treatment cost?

When should I schedule my child 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.

Will my child's teeth straighten as they grow?

Because the space available for the front teeth will not increase as they grow, their teeth will not straighten out as they grow. In fact, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the teeth may decrease with age.

My child still has baby teeth, can orthodontic correction still occur?

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.

What is Phase One Treatment?

Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 12-18 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.

Will my child require an expander?

At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander.

If my child has Phase One treatment, will they still need a second phase of treatment?

It is best to assume that your child will need a second phase 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.

I'm an adult. Is it too late to get braces or Invisalign?

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

I have crowns and missing teeth. Can I still wear braces or Invisalign?

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.

Will I need to have teeth extracted before treatment?

Removing teeth is occasionally required to achieve ideal results. However, our doctors have developed and refined techniques over time that allow them to treat most cases without the removal of healthy adult teeth.

Will shots be required during treatment?

Shots are usually unnecessary for orthodontic treatment.

How long does treatment take?

Treatment time varies depending on your treatment type. In general, treatment times may range anywhere from 6 to 36 months.

How often will I need to visit the orthodontist?

Most patients in braces will be seen every 6 to 10 weeks, while most patients in Invisalign will be seen every 10-16 weeks, depending on individual needs. depending on individual needs. If you require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule additional appointments.

My child is in school, can I schedule their appointments after school?

We make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs. However, we cannot guarantee all appointments for students will be during after-school hours. Because most appointments are scheduled 6-12 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments.

Is it okay to drop my child off for their appointment?

Absolutely. All we ask is that parents check in with the office before dropping off or picking up in case we need to speak to you.

Can my child return to school the same day they get their braces or Invisalign?

Definitely. There is no need to miss the remainder of the school day because of an orthodontic appointment.

What are emergency appointments and how are they 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.

Should I still see my dentist while I have braces or Invisalign?

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 treatment.

What happens after my treatment is complete? Do I need retainers?

All orthodontic patients are instructed to wear their retainers at night indefinitely. Sleeping with your retainers in at night will ensure a healthy bite and maintain the new position of your teeth

I’ve heard braces hurt, is this true?

While your teeth may be sore after an adjustment, generally, braces do not “hurt.” If you’re feeling discomfort, we recommend pain medications that you usually take for a headache, ideally Tylenol. That said, after most visits, patients do not feel significant discomfort.

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.

Can I still play sports with my braces?

Yes. Absolutely! We recommend a custom-fit mouthguard when playing sports.

Which foods should I avoid while I have braces?

We will go over and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid during treatment. Some examples of foods to avoid include: hard candy, raw vegetables and sticky treats such as caramel and taffy. Avoiding these foods will help you avoid damage to your braces and emergency appointments.

How often do I need to brush my teeth while in braces?

We recommend you brush your teeth after each meal and before bed. We will also show you how to floss with braces and, if necessary, may provide a prescription for a special toothpaste.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a method of orthodontic treatment, which uses clear plastic trays- called aligners- to move teeth into position. These aligners look like thin sports mouth guards and can be taken out when playing sports or musical instruments, or if you have an important occasion.

When do I get my aligners?

After your consultation and once the digital scan of your teeth is taken, our doctors determine how your finished result will be accomplished. Once your treatment plan is finalized, the aligners are fabricated and shipped by Invisalign. The normal time frame is 4-6 weeks.

How many sets of Invisalign aligners will I need to wear?

The number of aligners you will be issued with depends on the complexity of your case and may be on an average between 18 and 80, used over the length of your treatment.

How often should I wear my Invisalign aligners?

You must wear your aligners for up to 22 hours daily. You may remove them for eating, drinking and regular oral hygiene.

Is there any discomfort with Invisalign treatment?

There will be some pressure and minor discomfort for a day or two after you change to a new aligner. This is a sign that your teeth are moving sequentially into their final position.

Are there any restrictions to what I can eat while in treatment with Invisalign?

No. Unlike braces, you may eat whatever you like as long as you remove the aligners before eating. Prior to placing the aligners back on, it is important to brush your teeth and the aligners after you eat.

How do I keep my Invisalign aligners clean?

Brushing them with toothpaste and a soft toothbrush will keep them fresh and clean.

Will wearing the Invisalign aligners affect my speech?

Like any orthodontic treatment, there is a short adjustment period. The more you speak with the aligners on, the quicker you will adjust.

Can I still play sports with my Invisalign?

Yes. Absolutely! We recommend a custom-fit mouthguard when playing sports.

Can I chew gum with Invisalign?

It is recommended that you remove your aligners prior to chewing gum as the gum will stick to the aligners.

Office Hours

Monday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM*
Tuesday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM
Wednesday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM
Thursday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM
Friday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM*
*Alternating Every Other Monday/Friday*

Office Hours

Monday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM*
Tuesday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM
Wednesday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM
Thursday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM
Friday 7:10 AM – 5:10 PM*
*Alternating Every Other Monday/Friday*