If you are experiencing extreme pain and/or
have a broken appliance, you should call our office. In
most instances, we can address these issues
over the telephone. If you require an emergency
6. Do braces hurt?
Wearing braces does
not "hurt". Some patients may experience discomfort or soreness after
certain appointments. In
this situation, the discomfort can be alleviated with over-the-counter
pain reliever. After
an initial acclimation period, our patients do not notice these minor discomforts.
We are often
reminding them that "teeth do not have to hurt for braces to work".
7. How long will treatment take?
The length of treatment mainly depends on the severity of the orthodontic problem(s) identified,
the individual's response to orthodontic forces and the patient's cooperation with treatment.
Typically, orthodontic
treatment may last between 8 to 30 months. The "average" treatment time
is between 12
to 24 months.
8. Can I still play sports?
Yes. We can recommend a mouthguard for all sports.
9.
How much will treatment cost and will you accept my insurance?
Your treatment cost can only be determined
once the initial examination has taken place. At this
time, we will review the different
financial options available, as well as discuss your insurance
benefit. We make every effort
to help you maximize your insurance and will even help you file
your claim.
10. Can orthodontic
treatment begin even though my child still has baby teeth?
Yes. Some orthodontic problems
are severe enough to greatly benefit from early intervention.
If your child does
not need early treatment, we will monitor his/her growth and development
until the time
is right to begin treatment. Learn more
here about early treatment.
11. Will I need to get shots?
No. Shots are not ncessary for orthodontic treatment.
12. How frequent will my appointments be?
Appointments generally take place every 4-8 weeks, depending on each patient's needs. If a
situation requires more frequent monitoring, your appointments will be scheduled accordingly.
13. Am I too old
for braces?
On average, twenty-five percent of orthodontic patients are adults. Like everyone
else, adults
can greatly benefit from a beautiful, healthy smile and increased self-esteem.
No one is ever
"too old" for braces. Learn more
here about adult treatment.
14.
Can I schedule ALL my appointments after school?
We make every effort to assist in meeting your
scheduling needs. There will be times when
longer appointments have to take place
during school hours. However, because appointments
take place every 4-8 weeks, your
child will not miss much school due to their orthodontic
appointments.
15. Can I drop off
my child for his/her appointments?
Yes. We want to help you make the most of your busy day. There may
be a need for the
doctor and staff to speak with you after the appointment, so
please be sure to check with our
front office when you arrive.
16.
Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?
An orthodontic specialist has the unique training
and skills to identify and treat all areas of tooth
movement and jaw development.
Teeth and the surrounding facial structures can be
permanently changed by orthodontic treatment.
It is extremely important that treatment be
completed by a speciality- trained orthodontist.
