Frequently Asked Questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: My child is 7 years old, is that too young to start looking into orthodontics? What age should we start looking into orthodontics? What if they still have baby teeth?
A: The American Association of Orthodontics actually recommends a first orthodontic exam at or before the age of 7. This allows the orthodontist to detect any abnormalities early and guide jaw growth to correct or prevent problems.
Q: Why should someone consider orthodontic treatment?
A: For many reasons! Not only are straight teeth a part of orthodontic treatment, but establishing a proper bite is essential to basic function like eating, speaking, and swallowing. Orthodontics combines esthetics and function to provide beautiful, healthy smiles that will last a lifetime.
Q: What is the difference between braces and invisalign? How do I know what option is right for me?
A: Braces and Invisalign are both popular options for kids, teens, and adults. Braces are attached to your teeth and connected with an archwire, while Invisalign uses clear plastic trays to move your teeth. At your consultation, we will review all the options with you and recommend which one would suit your needs best.
Q: What does it mean to be ABO certified?
A: In order to become board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), an orthodontist is thoroughly tested by a highly respected panel of examiners to demonstrate their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills and judgment. Board certification is a voluntary process that conveys utmost dedication to the profession, and only about 1 in 3 orthodontists are board certified.
Q: How long will my treatment take?
A: Your orthodontic treatment is completely personalized, and as a result, treatment time varies. On average, a typical case can range anywhere from 18 to 24 months.
Q: How often would I have to come in for treatment?
A: We typically see our patients every 4-6 weeks between appointments to either adjust braces or monitor your Invisalign treatment and deliver trays.
Q: Do braces hurt? What can I do about any discomfort?
A: With any orthodontic treatment, pressure is being applied to your teeth to move them. You may experience temporary discomfort, but it quickly dissipates and soft foods (and ice cream!) are great remedies.
Q: What is Phase I and Phase II?
A: Phase I, also called interceptive orthodontics, is a stage of treatment usually reserved for our younger patients that still have some baby teeth. Major issues, growth guidance, or skeletal (jaw) discrepancies are taken care of during Phase I. After the first phase, then Phase II will be the final, finishing phase of treatment.
Q: Is it possible to wait too long to get braces? Am I too old for braces?
A: You are never too old! Some problems are more easily treated while younger, which is why we recommend an exam at age 7, but orthodontic treatment is always an option, no matter your age! Invisalign is a popular option for adults who may not want to rock a set of braces.
Q: What will I need to change in my daily routine once I get braces?
A: Getting used to a more beautiful smile! When you get started with orthodontic treatment, we review all the instructions on maintaining your appliances which will become second nature soon enough. After the initial adjustment, you only have the great results to look forward to.
A: The American Association of Orthodontics actually recommends a first orthodontic exam at or before the age of 7. This allows the orthodontist to detect any abnormalities early and guide jaw growth to correct or prevent problems.
Q: Why should someone consider orthodontic treatment?
A: For many reasons! Not only are straight teeth a part of orthodontic treatment, but establishing a proper bite is essential to basic function like eating, speaking, and swallowing. Orthodontics combines esthetics and function to provide beautiful, healthy smiles that will last a lifetime.
Q: What is the difference between braces and invisalign? How do I know what option is right for me?
A: Braces and Invisalign are both popular options for kids, teens, and adults. Braces are attached to your teeth and connected with an archwire, while Invisalign uses clear plastic trays to move your teeth. At your consultation, we will review all the options with you and recommend which one would suit your needs best.
Q: What does it mean to be ABO certified?
A: In order to become board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), an orthodontist is thoroughly tested by a highly respected panel of examiners to demonstrate their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills and judgment. Board certification is a voluntary process that conveys utmost dedication to the profession, and only about 1 in 3 orthodontists are board certified.
Q: How long will my treatment take?
A: Your orthodontic treatment is completely personalized, and as a result, treatment time varies. On average, a typical case can range anywhere from 18 to 24 months.
Q: How often would I have to come in for treatment?
A: We typically see our patients every 4-6 weeks between appointments to either adjust braces or monitor your Invisalign treatment and deliver trays.
Q: Do braces hurt? What can I do about any discomfort?
A: With any orthodontic treatment, pressure is being applied to your teeth to move them. You may experience temporary discomfort, but it quickly dissipates and soft foods (and ice cream!) are great remedies.
Q: What is Phase I and Phase II?
A: Phase I, also called interceptive orthodontics, is a stage of treatment usually reserved for our younger patients that still have some baby teeth. Major issues, growth guidance, or skeletal (jaw) discrepancies are taken care of during Phase I. After the first phase, then Phase II will be the final, finishing phase of treatment.
Q: Is it possible to wait too long to get braces? Am I too old for braces?
A: You are never too old! Some problems are more easily treated while younger, which is why we recommend an exam at age 7, but orthodontic treatment is always an option, no matter your age! Invisalign is a popular option for adults who may not want to rock a set of braces.
Q: What will I need to change in my daily routine once I get braces?
A: Getting used to a more beautiful smile! When you get started with orthodontic treatment, we review all the instructions on maintaining your appliances which will become second nature soon enough. After the initial adjustment, you only have the great results to look forward to.