We’re always happy to receive and answer your questions. Here are some answers to the most common questions we receive about braces and Invisalign. If you don’t find your question here, or would rather talk to us directly, don’t hesitate to call us at 215-576-5805.
Because a specialist is the best doctor for the job of making your smile dazzle! Both the teeth and facial structures are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists have at least two additional years of extensive and specialized clinical training after dental school in straightening the teeth and aligning the jaws. This additional training and experience enables orthodontists to provide their patients with holistic care that covers orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
Because you should love your smile and smile a lot. Evidence supports that a straight, beautiful smile improves your confidence and self-esteem. Orthodontic treatment can eliminate malocclusions (improper bites) and the wide variety of problems that malocclusions can cause. Malocclusions may affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth, and even how you feel about your teeth. Without treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists reports that orthodontic problems can lead to tooth decay, gum (periodontal) disease, bone loss, speech impairment, chewing and digestive disorders, unnecessary tooth loss and other associated dental injuries. By addressing an issue early, orthodontics can prevent unwanted skeletal changes and complex treatments.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate your child’s orthodontic condition. Addressing orthodontic problems early can make for easier and faster treatment. Many times, early treatment can achieve results that would be unattainable once the face and jaws have completed growth and early intervention can save patients from a more prolonged and complex treatment process later in life. If a young patient is not ready for treatment, we will continue to monitor the patient’s dental health to determine if treatment is necessary at a future age.
No. The space available for a person’s front teeth does not increase over time. After a person’s permanent molars erupt, the space available for front teeth generally decreases with age.
Phase One treatment, if necessary, begins on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment generally lasts about 9 to 18 months. The primary objective of Phase One treatment is to address significant problems and prevent them from becoming more severe, and as always to improve self-esteem and self-image.
No patient is “too old” for orthodontics! About 25% of orthodontic patients are adults. We offer a number of aesthetic options, including Invisalign and clear braces, and Acceledent to reduce your treatment time.
A doctor will complete a thorough examination and evaluate whether an orthodontic problem exists. If necessary, we may recommend a complimentary panorex x-ray to further evaluate your dental development. We will discuss treatment options, the length of time required for treatment and the cost of proceeding (including insurance benefits and payment plan options). You will leave the appointment at ease, with all of your questions addressed.
Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are goals of orthodontics. Because our office utilizes the most advanced technology in orthodontics, removing teeth is often not necessary for treatment. However, there are always a few exceptions and, in some cases, we may recommend removing a tooth in order to achieve an ideal bite and perfect smile.
Every treatment is different because every smile is different! …so treatment time varies. We make sure that each office visit is efficient and effective so that your treatment can be completed in a timely manner. We will provide an estimated length of treatment during your complimentary consultation. We also offer the latest technology in accelerated treatment.
We schedule appointments according to each patient’s individual needs. Most patients in treatment will have an appointment every 4-10 weeks.
Rest assured, we work with you to find an affordable payment plan and our staff is great at helping you maximize the benefits from your insurance plan or Flex Spending Account. We offer no-interest financing plans and work within your budget.
However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all. We often remind our patients, “It does not have to hurt to work!”
We’ve got you covered. Our office provides fulltime emergency coverage. If your braces are causing discomfort or if something breaks, simply call our office and someone will be available to assist you. In most cases, we can address an issue over the telephone. If an emergency appointment is required, we will set aside time for you.
Yes, and it’s important that you have one! We provide our patients with customized retainers after their active orthodontic treatment is complete. Like all parts of the body, teeth are constantly changing and adapting. Regular wear of the retainers will keep your teeth from shifting. We strongly believe that the “retention” part of your treatment is just as important as the “active” part of your treatment.