The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, several permanent teeth have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate your child’s orthodontic condition. After an orthodontic exam, we will be able to give you advice on how to properly treat your child’s orthodontic problems.

The answer is a simple no. Growth does not resolve crowding issues. Once the first permanent molars have erupted, the space available for the remaining adult teeth decreases with age.

Simply call our office. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you.

No, you do not. In fact, many of our patients are referred by family and friends, and those new patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.

When you arrive, you will be greeted by our new patient coordinator. She will review yours or your child’s health history and explain our office policies and procedures. Our doctor will then perform a complete and thorough orthodontic exam. The doctor will answer your questions, review your orthodontic options and customize a treatment plan for you or your child.

Some patients require the removal of teeth to achieve the best orthodontic result. However, many do not require the removal of permanent teeth to achieve that great result.

Treatment time obviously depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem whether it is, Phase I, Phase II, comprehensive or surgical orthodontic care. In general, average treatment times range from 12 to 36 months. Quality care takes time.

Most orthodontic insurance polices only cover a portion of orthodontic treatment and have a lifetime maximum benefit. This is a distinct difference from regular dental insurance. Since orthodontic insurance policies vary we will review your particular insurance policy to maximize your benefit. Then, based upon your insurance benefits we will review with you different financing options.

Most of our patients are seen every five to seven weeks. Sometimes patients may be seen more frequently based upon that particular patient’s orthodontic needs.

In general, braces may be uncomfortable after certain appointments, but they shouldn’t hurt. Over the counter pain relievers such as Advil or Tylenol should relieve any discomfort. However, after most visits most patients do not experience much soreness at all.

It’s a simple yes. We have patients playing all kinds of sports with braces.

All patients should maintain their regular checkups with their family dentist. These appointment are very important while a patient is in braces. Your family dentist will help determine the appropriate intervals between cleaning appointments.

Yes. Once treatment begins, we will provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of these foods include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid damaged or broken appliances by carefully following our instructions.

Patients should brush their teeth every morning, after each meal and before going to bed.

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.

Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child be seen by an orthodontist at age 7. However, if a child is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that child’s growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.