Frequently Asked Questions
Initial Visit
Do you charge for an initial visit?
No, we do not. As a courtesy to you and your family dentist, we discuss the feasibility of braces or tooth straightening without any charge. There may be a co-payment for X-rays and other diagnostic procedures.
At what age do you start seeing patients?
We prefer to evaluate young patients once their 6-year molars have erupted and their front permanent teeth start to appear, typically between the ages of 6 and 8.
Why do you evaluate patients so young?
Early evaluation is more about informing and observing than starting treatment. It allows us to identify and discuss potential needs early on. A small percentage of young patients might require some form of intervention. Habits are evaluated, medical issues are discussed, and an observation schedule is arranged.
How long will the first visit take?
The first visit can last between 30 minutes to an hour depending on the patient’s readiness for treatment. We may conduct a visual exam and explain the situation, or suggest one or more X-rays and complete diagnostics including casts of the teeth with photographs.
Do you take patients transferring from out of town?
Yes, we do. We handle a patient transferring into our office from another city just like a new patient. We gather complete diagnostic records to show the current status and propose treatment to complete the work that has been started. Unlike most practices, we do not ask for a large down payment but merely assess a monthly fee to complete the treatment in progress.
Do you have any adult patients?
Absolutely. A growing percentage of our patients are adults. New, more cosmetic appliances are making adult treatment much more comfortable and convenient.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
An orthodontist is a general dentist who has undergone at least two additional years of full-time training in orthodontics, resulting in a nationally accepted specialty certificate. The orthodontist then limits their practice to straightening teeth and dentofacial orthopedics.
Can I make all my appointments in the afternoon after school and late in the day?
To ensure early and late appointments are available for most patients, some procedures need to be accomplished between 9 AM and 3 PM. We will do our best to accommodate your family’s needs and schedules.
Do you see patients for emergencies?
Yes, our contact information for emergencies is posted on our website as well as on our phone answering machine.
Financial
Can we make payments?
Yes, we offer convenient payment plans to allow you to pay for necessary services over a period of time, usually coinciding with your treatment plan.
How do you handle insurance?
After verifying coverage, we will bill and collect from the insurance carrier. However, if coverage ceases or changes, the patient is still responsible for the agreed-upon fee.
Do you take American Express, MasterCard, and/or Visa?
Yes, we accept all major credit cards.
Do you have direct debit?
Yes, we offer direct debit, charge card posting, and online payment options.
Do you charge interest?
No, we do not.
Do you give family discounts?
We offer special programs and fees for multiple patients from the same family.
Types of Treatment
What is Phase 1 Treatment?
Phase 1 treatment begins before all permanent teeth have erupted to correct harmful malocclusions that may be more difficult or impossible to address later. It does not eliminate the need for conventional orthodontics during adolescence but addresses issues like individual tooth or jaw crossbites and severe underbites and overbites.
What is Phase 2 Treatment?
Phase 2 treatment is a conventional orthodontic treatment that usually begins when the last baby teeth fall out and continues until the 12-year molars have been evaluated or straightened. This treatment typically lasts between 2 and 3 years.
How do I know if Phase 1, Phase 2, or both types of treatments are necessary?
An early visit is recommended. About 10 to 20 percent of young patients may benefit from Phase 1 treatment. Most other patients are observed until the appropriate time to initiate care.
Does early treatment ensure a better result?
Not always. Early treatment can achieve meaningful goals, but the quality of the result is determined at the end of care. We do not encourage early treatment unless significant benefits can be achieved.
Moving of Teeth (Mechanics)
I need to be pre-medicated for the dentist. Do I need to take my medicine for the orthodontist?
Yes.
How long do braces take?
Complete treatment typically takes about 2 years of active tooth movement, sometimes divided into two or more periods with a rest period of 6 to 18 months in between.
How do braces work?
Crooked teeth are gradually moved into desired positions by attaching shaped wires to brackets on the teeth.
Do you use recycled braces?
No.
Retainers
Do retainers need to be worn after braces?
Yes, retainers are worn full-time for about 6 months, followed by nighttime wear indefinitely.
Why do teeth get crooked after wearing braces or aligners?
Teeth naturally move throughout life, which is why retainer wear is recommended indefinitely to maintain orthodontic results over a lifetime.
How about retainers glued to the backs of teeth?
Permanent retainers can be attached to the back of the lower teeth to keep them in place. This requires special hygiene procedures and regular check-ups with the family dentist.
Wisdom Teeth (Third Molars)
Do wisdom teeth cause teeth to get crooked?
Research indicates that this is not true.
Why do wisdom teeth need to be removed?
Wisdom teeth can cause gum problems, swelling if impacted, and trap food below the gum tissue, leading to infection. It’s preferable to plan their removal rather than address them under emergency conditions.
When is a good time to have wisdom teeth removed?
The best time is when approximately 2/3 of the root is formed, typically sometime after age 16 or 18.
Temporomandibular Disorders (TMJ)
Can braces or orthodontic treatment treat or cause TMJ problems?
There is no direct link between orthodontic treatment or occlusion and TMJ. TMJ problems can occur in the presence of all types of good and bad bites.
Health Impact
What are the health benefits of wearing braces?
Orthodontics improves bite comfort, facilitates easier brushing and flossing for good dental health, and often helps balance facial musculature. The positive self-esteem benefits are immeasurable.
How do enlarged adenoids and allergies affect braces?
Mouth breathing due to enlarged adenoids, tonsils, or allergies may cause the upper and lower jaws to grow apart and elongate the facial form during growth, resulting in crowding and often narrow arches.
How does a tongue thrust or low tongue posture affect braces?
The pressure from tongue thrusting can aggravate protrusion and spacing, similar to the effects of enlarged adenoids.
