Orthodontics F.A.Q.

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age 7 or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child’s physician.

A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 35 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness, and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. A beautiful smile has no age limits.

Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 10-14 months. The primary objective for Phase One is to address immediate and specific problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to get the teeth and jaws on a more normal growing pattern. Improvement of self-esteem and self-image is also another big factor in electing for Phase One treatment.

Phase Two treatment is also called comprehensive treatment, because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of 11 and 13. The vast majority of patients who need Phase One treatment will also require Phase Two treatment once all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Between Phase One and Phase Two, the patient often times will require the wearing of retainers to maintain the early correction.

Your orthodontic treatment is an investment that truly pays off. The actual cost will depend upon various factors, including the complexity and severity of your problem and the required length of your treatment. We will cover the exact cost and financial options during the initial consultation. We have many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims.

Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every 8 to 12 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.

Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled 8 to 12 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their appointment treatments. We will make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.

No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.

Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables, and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.

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! You will be asked to continue to see your General Dentist for cleanings and exams twice a year. Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces.

We find that in order to get the best possible result, braces are generally worn for a period of 22-26 months, depending on Dr. Hester or Dr. Morris’ recommendations.

Orthodontic treatment is much more than pretty teeth. A good, healthy bite may help eliminate other health problems in later years such as jaw pain, popping and clicking and/or headaches. It may also help save teeth from wearing down due to clenching and/or grinding.

The first year you will wear your retainers at night every night. You may eventually get to a point where you only need to wear the retainers several nights per week to keep your teeth straight but we tell our patients that retainers are a lifetime commitment.