FAQ

The American and Canadian Association of orthodontists suggests that the ideal time for an orthodontic consultation for your child is when the permanent front teeth and first molars erupt into the mouth (usually by age 7).

For some children, an early screening indicates a need for immediate treatment, since some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early. For other children, whose treatment may be months or years away, a screening will help the patient/family establish a relationship with our office. As well, an early examination provides the orthodontist with a baseline of the bite and jaw position for future comparison. Alternatively, an early screening may suggest that no treatment is needed, putting the parents’ and patients’ minds at ease.

Your family dentist does not need to make a specific referral for you to come to our office. In fact, we welcome referrals from our patients. We are always pleased to meet with you for an orthodontic consultation to discuss your concerns and make recommendations.

No. Although some orthodontic problems have been shown to be treated effectively at an early age, most orthodontic patients are still treated once all of the primary teeth have fallen out.

Every case is unique and not all orthodontic problems are treated in the same manner. It is therefore difficult to suggest an ideal time that would apply to all patients. Orthodontic treatment is most commonly initiated during adolescence when most, if not all, of the permanent teeth have erupted into the mouth

It is never too late to undergo orthodontic treatment, since healthy teeth can be moved at any age. In fact, adult orthodontic treatment has never been more popular. Nearly one million adults are wearing braces today- twice as many as 10 years ago. Many adults who may not have had the opportunity to receive orthodontic treatment as children are deciding to correct that bothersome smile, or those crowded and difficult-to-clean teeth.

People should expect to keep their teeth for a lifetime and orthodontics can play a key role in reaching this goal. Today, with the significant technological advances in the field of orthodontics, treatment can progress more easily and comfortably for patients and in less time than in the past. There are “braces to suit all faces”, coming in silver, clear, and even invisible braces. As a team, together with your dentist, we can achieve beautiful and healthy smiles that last a lifetime.

It is difficult to suggest a standard length of treatment since every case is different. In general, the treatment time is determined by the complexity of the initial problem or malocclusion, as well as the goals of the treatment. An average orthodontic treatment will generally last 24-30 months. Simpler orthodontic problems could be treated in approximately a year , while more complex cases could extend to three years. At your initial consultation appointment, YOUR estimated treatment time will be explained. One must keep in mind that patient cooperation is an important factor in ensuring that treatment is completed on schedule.

Generally we see our patients for routine adjustments every six to eight weeks. Depending on the nature of the treatment, this may vary. Typical appointments are approximately 20-30 minutes in length. We recognize that our patients’ time is valuable and we work very hard to see everyone on schedule.

Yes. During the retention period the teeth will settle into their new positions. There is always some of this settling of the teeth and bite during and after the retention period. Throughout life, the position of a person’s teeth is constantly changing. This is true with all individuals regardless of whether they have had orthodontic treatment or not. In addition, teeth have a memory and tend to shift back towards their original position.. Therefore, you MUST wear your retainers as instructed in order to minimize any post-treatment relapse or crowding.

The cost of orthodontics relates to the complexity of the treatment that is required. Since every person’s bite and smile is unique, the cost of providing the appropriate treatment will vary. The cost of orthodontic treatment is however, more affordable than you might think. Our staff will work with you to set up a flexible payment arrangement that will extend over your treatment time. Please feel free to talk to us about how we can set up a manageable payment plan that suits your needs We will also provide you with an insurance predetermination/estimate for you to send to your insurance carrier.

When one considers that the psychological and physical benefits of orthodontics last a lifetime, treatment is not only affordable but also a wonderful investment.