Below are some of the most frequently asked questions patients have about orthodontics. If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you.
Click on a question below to see the answer.
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Why Choose an Orthodontic Specialist?
Orthodontists are dentists that undergo 2-3 additional years of specialized training after dental school, focusing specifically on orthodontic treatments. Since orthodontic care often involves permanent changes to your teeth and sometimes facial structures, it’s essential to choose an expert who has the experience and expertise to provide optimal care and results. A board certified orthodontist sas willingly dedicated hundreds of extra hours to further develop their judgment, skills, and knowledge, ensuring the ability to provide the highest standard of patient care.
What Happens at the Consultation?
Your consultation is completely free! During the visit, you'll have the opportunity to tour the office, learn about orthodontic treatment, and meet Dr. Daly. Some photographs, x-rays (if needed), and a digital scan of your teeth will be taken to assess your teeth. Dr. Daly will evaluate your alignment, bite and review treatment options with you. She’ll provide an estimated treatment timeline, cost breakdown, insurance coverage and available payment plans.
Do I Need a Referral from My Family Dentist?
No referral is necessary for an orthodontic consultation. While your family or pediatric dentist may recommend you to an orthodontist, many patients choose to schedule a consultation directly.
What's the Best Age for an Orthodontic Consult?
The American Academy of Orthodontists suggests scheduling an orthodontic consultation around age 7. This is an ideal age to evaluate the alignment of existing permanent teeth and overall bite. Early evaluation allows for preventive measures to be taken, making future treatment smoother, preventing potential problems, and improving the smile.
What Is Early Treatment?
Early treatment, typically for children 7-10 years old used to address issues that could worsen over time or may be more difficult to treat later on. This type of treatment is done while some baby teeth are still present and may help avoid more complex problems later. It can also improve self-esteem in children who might be self conscious or have negative experiences at school due to their smile.
What If I'm Not Ready for Braces Yet?
If your child is not ready for treatment, Dr. Daly will determine how frequently she would like to monitor your progress through observation visits. During these visits, she’ll keep track of when baby teeth fall out, when permanent teeth come in, and how much they are growing. This will help determine the best time to begin treatment.
Am I Too Old for Orthodontic Treatment?
Not at all! You're never too old for braces. However, if you're concerned about the appearance of traditional braces, there are discreet options such as clear brackets or Invisalign clear aligners to help you achieve the smile you want without feeling self-conscious.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Treatment duration is unique to and depends on each patient’s teeth and bite. On average, treatment ranges from 12 to 30 months, with most patients completing comprehensive treatments in around 18-24 months. However, more limited treatments can range from a few months to a year only.
Will My Treatment Hurt?
Braces typically don’t cause pain, though you may feel some discomfort after adjustments, similar to the feeling you get after exercising. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Tylenol can help alleviate this mild soreness. This soreness is only temporary.
What Foods Should I Avoid After Starting Treatment?
Once treatment begins, we’ll provide you with a list of foods to avoid. Sticky or hard foods can damage brackets, which may delay your treatment. It’s important to follow these guidelines to avoid unnecessary complications.
How Do I Brush and Floss with Braces?
Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial with braces, as they tend to trap more food than regular teeth. It’s important to brush after every meal and floss once a day to avoid cavities, gum disease, or white spots on your teeth. We will guide you on the best brushing and flossing techniques when you start treatment. We recommend continuing visits with your dentist every 6 months for regular cleanings and checks.