Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions received from both patients and dental offices. If you don't see an answer to your question, please feel free to contact us!
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial problems using appliances such as braces. Braces are appliances that can be fitted to teeth so that correction of dental and facial problems can be achieved.
Beyond the esthetic benefits, orthodontic treatment may improve function, establish favorable wear patterns and facilitate greater longevity of the natural teeth. Poorly arranged teeth are more susceptible to trauma and can trap food particles that increase tooth decay and gum disease. They can also lead to poor chewing and digestion which can be bad for your general health. Finally, poorly arranged teeth detract from your smile which is one of the most important features of your face.
The best time for a child to begin seeing an orthodontist is approximately age six unless one suspects a problem at an earlier age. Many times no treatment is necessary at this young age but it is best to see patients early enough to take advantage of "interceptive treatment". If no treatment is recommended, patients will be put on a recall basis where we check them back every six to twelve months or so to evaluate when treatment will be necessary. There is no charge for recall visits.
Early discovery of orthodontic problems allow the orthodontist to determine the best time for treatment to begin. In certain cases, optimum results are not possible once the face and jaw have stopped growing. Early examination often permits maximum improvement with the least amount of time and expense. However, adult patients who have healthy teeth and supporting structures are never too old for orthodontic treatment. You are never to old to receive a beautiful smile!
Diagnostic records include plaster models of the teeth, jaw x-rays, and digital photos of the face and teeth. They are very important in assisting the doctor in planning the correct treatment for each patient. Based on these records, the doctor can decide what type of treatment is necessary and approximately what the length of treatment will be.
Orthodontic fees have not increased as much or as quickly as many other medical and dental services. Fees range from $3000.00 to $7500.00 depending on the type of treatment needed. Orthodontic treatment may eliminate the need for other more expensive care in the future. The social and psychological benefits can last a lifetime, so orthodontics is one of the best values in dentistry and in improving ones quality of life. Many insurance plans now include orthodontics, and many patients choose to use our convenient monthly payment plan. Well timed treatment to correct orthodontic problems is often less expensive than the additional dental treatment required to treat more serious problems that can develop years later.
Many dental insurance plans do cover orthodontic treatment. We are happy to help you check into your insurance benefits.
Orthodontists have received years of advanced training, in addition to their general dental degrees, to become a specialist. Teeth and facial profiles can be permanently changed by orthodontic treatment; therefore, it is very important that the treatment be done properly.
No! In fact, many of the patients in our practice are adults. Orthodontics is for all ages who want a better smile.
No anesthesia is used in our office as it is not necessary. Having braces put on is painless. A few days before the braces are put on spacers are put in between the molars. This can sometimes cause discomfort the day after they are put in but aspirin or Tylenol is sufficient in easing the discomfort.
The average treatment length is usually 18-24 months, but the exact treatment length varies with each case.
Retainers need to be worn after the braces are removed to keep the teeth stable. Retainers will need to be worn throughout your life to keep the teeth in the correct position.
