If you have a question, we have an answer. Here are some answers to some of our most commonly asked questions, such as why is orthodontics important, and how much does treatment cost? If you don’t find the answer you’re in search just call our office and we’ll be happy to help!
- Why is Orthodontics important?
There are several reasons why orthodontics is important. Misaligned and crooked teeth are hard to maintain and keep clean. This can promote tooth decay, worsen gum disease and lead to tooth loss. Additional misalignment problems of your teeth can contribute to abnormal wear of the top surfaces of your teeth, inefficient and poor chewing ability, or excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth. Treatment by an orthodontist can be less costly than the additional care and maintenance required to treat these common dental problems. Finally, the most obvious reason for orthodontics is a beautiful, self confident smile!
- At what age should treatment begin?
Children and adults alike can benefit from orthodontics. Children as early as age 7 can be evaluated to help determine possible future orthodontic needs. By this time the permanent first molars and incisors should be in and crowding or crossbite problems become evident. If treatment is necessary at this early age it is considered “early” or Phase I treatment. This early treatment can help guide the jaws during growth and gain space, possibly preventing permanent teeth from being extracted. Comprehensive or Phase II treatment for the majority of individuals begins when most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted and thus can be straightened. Ideally this is around 10-12 years of age, taking advantage of potential growth spurts and speeding up treatment time. This being said, teenagers and adults can also have very successful orthodontic treatment with some limitations. Adult treatment is becoming increasingly more common and at least 20% of orthodontic patients are adults.
- How long will I be in braces?
Comprehensive or Phase II orthodontic treatment time usually ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient’s mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Patient compliance, i.e. how well rubber bands are worn, how well appointments are attended and how well instructions are followed, also helps determine the length of treatment.
Early or Phase I treatment may take as little as six months, but may potentially take up to a year, depending on the problem.
- What is the cost of treatment?
The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the orthodontic problem and the length of time that’s necessary to treat it. Treatment fees and payment plans will be clearly discussed before any treatment begins. We have a variety of payment options allowing orthodontics to fit different budgets. We accept most insurance and will process and file the necessary forms to the insurance company. We also accept payments by Visa and Mastercard.