Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry that focuses in the diagnosis, prevention and correction of dental and facial disharmonies. An orthodontist uses appliances or braces to properly align the teeth and jaws. This correction helps with the physical appearance of the teeth, the function of a bite and future oral health. Treatment can be provided in either one or two phases depending on the patient's needs. Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite." The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances, such as braces, to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and to achieve facial balance.

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At what age should my child have an orthodontic evaluation?

By age 7, enough permanent teeth have come in and enough jaw growth has occurred that the dentist or orthodontist can identify current problems, anticipate future problems and alleviate parents' concerns if all seems normal. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by age 7, and crossbites, crowding and developing injury-prone dental protrusions can be evaluated. Any ongoing finger sucking or other oral habits can be assessed at this time also.

Some signs or habits that may indicate the need for an early orthodontic examination are:

  1. early or late loss of baby teeth,
  2. difficulty in chewing or biting,
  3. mouth breathing,
  4. thumb sucking,
  5. finger sucking,
  6. crowding, misplaced or blocked out teeth,
  7. jaws that shift or make sounds,
  8. biting the cheek or roof of the mouth,
  9. teeth that meet abnormally or not at all, and
  10. jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face.

A check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7 enables the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems (if any), advise if treatment will be necessary, and determine the best time for that patient to be treated.

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What is two phase orthodontic treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is indicated in cases where the orthodontic problem is severe, when the current position of the teeth is likely to cause damage or trauma, when the gums and other soft tissue are being negatively affected, and when an orthodontic problem is observed to be worsening over time. Early treatment can have the following benefits:

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How much will the consultation cost?

Because we believe that a proper bite is an important component of good dental health our practice provides orthodontic evaluations to our patients at no cost. During this visit we wish to assess the growth and development of your child’s jaw and teeth and discuss with you where their own development stands as well as assess any future orthodontic needs. Please discuss with your pediatric dentist whether a referral to the orthodontist is needed.

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How much will braces cost?

This will vary, of course, depending on the nature of the problem. Many orthodontic problems require only limited treatment. You may be surprised to discover that orthodontic treatment is more affordable than you thought.

Our orthodontic coordinator will be happy to discuss fees. We offer payment plans to help meet individual financial needs. In addition, many dental insurance plans now include orthodontic benefits. Of course, it's important to keep in mind the lifetime value that orthodontics provides.

How are appointments scheduled?

A great effort has been made to keep our patients in school as much as possible. Some orthodontic procedures (such as placing of braces or repairs) require morning appointments.

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Will braces hurt?

Most people have some discomfort after their braces are first put on or when adjusted during treatment. After the braces are on, teeth may become sore and may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. Patients can usually manage this discomfort well with whatever pain medication they might commonly take for a headache. Your orthodontist will advise you and your child what, if any, pain relievers to take. The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. Overall, orthodontic discomfort is short-lived and easily managed.

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How long does orthodontic treatment take?

I general, active treatment time with orthodontic appliances (braces) ranges from one to three years. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take only a few months. The actual time depends on the growth of the patient’s mouth and face, the cooperation of the patient and the severity of the problem. Mild problems usually require less time, and some individuals respond faster to treatment than others. Use of rubber bands and/or headgear, if prescribed by the orthodontist, contributes to completing treatment as scheduled.

While orthodontic treatment requires a time commitment, patients are rewarded with healthy teeth, proper jaw alignment and a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Teeth and jaws in proper alignment look better, work better, contribute to general physical health and can improve self-confidence.

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Why are retainers needed after orthodontic treatment?

After braces are removed, the teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

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What about the wisdom teeth (third molars) - should they be removed?

In about three out of four cases where teeth have not been removed during orthodontic treatment, there are good reasons to have the wisdom teeth removed, usually when a person reaches his or her mid- to late-teen years. Careful studies have shown, however, those wisdom teeth do not cause or contribute to the progressive crowding of lower incisor teeth that can develop in the late teen years and beyond. Your orthodontist, in consultation with your dentist, can determine what is right for you.

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Do I still need to see my dentist while I have braces?

Absolutely! Your dentist and orthodontist will work together to help you do the best job possible in caring for your gums and teeth. Your dentist will give you the tools and education to avoid cavities and gum disease. It is recommended that you keep the same check-up schedule with your dentist as before the braces were placed.

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How do I clean my teeth with braces?

Keeping the teeth and braces clean requires more precision and time, and must be done every day if the teeth and gums are to be healthy during and after orthodontic treatment. Patients who do not keep their teeth clean may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning.

The orthodontist and staff will teach patients how to best care for their teeth, gums and braces during treatment. The orthodontist will tell patients (and/or their parents) how often to brush, how often to floss, and, if necessary, suggest other cleaning aids that might help the patient maintain good dental health.

How do I floss with braces?

Flossing removes the plaque between your teeth and under the gum line-areas that are out of reach of your toothbrush.

Use threading floss with a stiffened end and thread it through the gap between each tooth-above the wire for your upper teeth and below the wire for your lower teeth.

Curve the floss around each tooth in a “C” shape and gently move it up and down the side of each tooth, including below the gum line. Move from tooth to tooth.

Can my child play sports while wearing braces?

Yes. Wearing a protective mouthguard is advised while playing any contact sports. Your orthodontist can recommend a specific mouthguard.

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Will my braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

Playing wind or brass instruments, such as the trumpet, will clearly require some adaptation to braces. With practice and a period of adjustment, braces typically do not interfere with the playing of musical instruments.

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Why does orthodontic treatment time sometimes last longer than anticipated?

Estimates of treatment time can only be that - estimates. Patients grow at different rates and will respond in their own ways to orthodontic treatment. The orthodontist has specific treatment goals in mind, and will usually continue treatment until these goals are achieved. Patient cooperation, however, is the single best predictor of staying on time with treatment. Patients who cooperate by wearing rubber bands, headgear or other needed appliances as directed, while taking care not to damage appliances, will most often lead to on-time and excellent treatment results.