FAQs About Orthodontic Treatment
Do You have Questions about Orthodontics or Treatment Options?
Read our Frequently Asked Questions for Answers!
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
Who is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed an advanced education program to learn the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.
At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age seven.
Why? Because certain orthodontic problems are easier to correct if a child is young. These corrections usually work best between the ages of seven and ten.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Why? Because certain orthodontic problems are easier to correct if a child is young. These corrections usually work best between the ages of seven and ten.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Do all children need to be checked by an orthodontist?
Even if you think your child doesn’t need orthodontic treatment, it’s still a good idea to schedule an appointment with Dr. Andy.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Schedule a Free Consultation
Can I schedule appointments after school or work?
With proper planning, we make a sincere effort to minimize missing school or work for orthodontic treatments.
Most patients in braces will be seen every 4-8 weeks. We reserve before and after school appointments for progress adjustments and appliance checks. We also offer some evening appointments.
Our patients have told us that they really appreciate our flexibility and care with scheduling appointments!
Most patients in braces will be seen every 4-8 weeks. We reserve before and after school appointments for progress adjustments and appliance checks. We also offer some evening appointments.
Our patients have told us that they really appreciate our flexibility and care with scheduling appointments!
Will teeth need to be extracted for braces?
Maybe; it varies for each patient.
Extraction is a last resort, so we only use this treatment when it’s absolutely necessary.
Thankfully, recent advances in technology have made teeth extraction for orthodontic treatment less common.
Extraction is a last resort, so we only use this treatment when it’s absolutely necessary.
Thankfully, recent advances in technology have made teeth extraction for orthodontic treatment less common.
How long will it take to complete treatment?
It varies for each patient.
General treatment lasts 8-30 months with 18-24 months as the average amount of time.
General treatment lasts 8-30 months with 18-24 months as the average amount of time.
Why are retainers needed after orthodontic treatment?
After braces are removed, sometimes teeth shift out of position if they’re 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 your treatment improvements last for a lifetime!
Will braces interfere with playing sports?
No, as long as patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in sports or physical activities, especially contact sports.
The good news is that mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
The good news is that mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
Yes! It’s important to have your teeth cleaned and polished while in braces. Be sure to schedule regular checkups with your dentist.
How often should I brush and floss my teeth while in braces?
If you wear braces, you should brush your teeth at least four times daily: after each meal and before going to bed. We also recommend daily flossing.
How are emergencies handled?
If your braces cause extreme pain or if something breaks, call our office immediately at 440-842-8015. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone. If you need an emergency appointment, we’ll be sure to schedule a time for you!
I’m an adult. Could I benefit from orthodontics?
Yes; orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age! Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Twenty to twenty-five percent of orthodontic patients today are adults.
Read more about Adult Braces
Read more about Adult Braces
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
This depends on the nature and severity of your orthodontic issues. We will discuss the exact cost and financial options during our initial examination.
The good news is we offer several financing options and, if you have insurance, will review your policy to maximize your benefit and file your claims.
The good news is we offer several financing options and, if you have insurance, will review your policy to maximize your benefit and file your claims.