Commonly Asked Orthodontic Questions:

Does it hurt?

Slight discomfort during chewing for one or two days after adjustment is common. Rarely is it enough to warrant pain medications.

Does it work and will it last?

Nearly everyone is pleased with their new smiles and appearance. Keeping the result involves a partnership between the patient and the orthodontist. Achieving a good result, adjusting the bite, releasing stress-producing fibers and periodic retainer or nightguard wear will ensure best results. Come see our 10 year after orthodontic cases- still beautiful results!

Can I afford it?

We can make financial arrangements for nearly everyone. Customarily, a down payment is required, with the remaining balance payable in monthly payments over the projected length of treatment. We also accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and have third party financing available through the Dental Fee Plan.

Is it covered by my dental insurance?

If orthodontic insurance is a benefit on your insurance plan, we will be happy to pre-authorize and determine the exact amount available and payable by your insurance company. Most insurance companies will co-pay 50 percent of the charges, up to a lifetime maximum if you are covered for orthodontics.

How long will I be in treatment?

Each individual is different, and treatment time depends on the complexity of the case. We will review your specific case at the time of your consultation, before treatment is started.

Am I a candidate for Invisalign or clear, braceless removable appliances?

Removable appliances can be utilized for many patients. They are especially good for patients whose back teeth are in reasonably good relation, whose problems are mainly in the area of the front teeth. Teenagers with all of their permanent teeth erupted are also candidates for these appliances. Go to our website link to Invisalign for more information.

Can I have clear braces?

We do have clear braces available. We also have gold and mini-silver. We have models and photos of patients that show the appliances in place.

Can I have braces that go on the inside of the teeth?

Our office has had training in the lingual or “invisible” braces. We feel that the length of treatment and length of appointment time precludes their use for most patients.

Can I do braces on just my upper teeth? Just my lower teeth?

Yes, sometimes it is possible. But most of the time, both arches must be treated.

Are the records fees included in the total fee for braces?

We take all records (panoramic X-ray, cephalometric film, photos and diagnostic study models) before any orthodontic treatment is set up and accepted by the patient. Therefore, we do bill for records separately before orthodontic treatment begins.

Will I have to wear headgear?

Most cases do not require headgear. In cases that do require headgear, it can usually be worn only in the evenings, weekends, and while sleeping.

Do I need to wear rubber bands?

Most people will require elastics (rubber bands) at some time during treatment. Those can be placed and removed by the patient. The elastics serve to bring the upper and lower teeth together in proper alignment.

Will I need extractions?

Our preference is non-extraction orthodontics. Some types of malocclusions do require extractions or jaw surgery for ideal treatment. Patient cooperation is a critical factor in avoiding jaw surgery or extractions.

What about jaw surgery?

In some malocclusions, particularly in adults, jaw surgery may be required for optimum facial and dental results. In many cases, however, there are alternatives.

Will it change my looks?

It depends on the malocclusion and selected treatment. It can be minor or significant. We work with an excellent team of plastic surgeons and orthognathic surgeons who are committed to giving anyone who desires an optimal facial change the desired result. For people who are happy as they are, a significant improvement in dental aesthetics can usually be made without a dramatic facial change.

Will orthodontics help save my teeth?

Having an ideal and even bite and having teeth in good positioning for cleaning will definitely help you keep your teeth. We will be happy to evaluate your situation for functional problems and potential benefits.

Will orthodontics help my TMJ problems?

We have successfully treated numerous patients with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems. These problems are not all caused by bad occlusion. We will be happy to see if your problems are caused by, or exaggerated by, your tooth position.

Will orthodontics facilitate my gum treatment?

Orthodontics can often facilitate gum treatments.

Are there risks in treatment?

As in all treatments, there are risks as well as benefits. For nearly all patients, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Progress records are taken at three to six month intervals to assure minimal problems. We will, of course, evaluate any potential risk areas.