How do I choose an orthodontist?
What is the proper age for a first visit?
Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
What will happen at the initial consultation?
What will I learn from the initial consultation?
How often will I have appointments?
Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
Can I still play sports?
Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
What is Phase One (early) Treatment?
Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
How do I choose an orthodontist?
There are many factors to consider when deciding on an orthodontist. Since you will be visiting our office at regular intervals throughout treatment for an extended period of time, we make sure that you feel comfortable. You should know what is involved with each aspect of your treatment before you start and you should feel comfortable asking questions at any time.
Here are some helpful websites:
What is the proper age for a first visit?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic screening by the age of seven. Even if comprehensive treatment is not indicated at that age, this appointment will serve as a baseline from which we can monitor future growth and development of the teeth and jaws. Our patient range in age from 4 to 71!
Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the orthodontist?
No, it is not. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, yet many other patients take the initiative to schedule a consultation themselves.
What will happen at the initial consultation?
Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled five to 10 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments. We will, however, make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.
Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
What is Phase One (early) Treatment?
Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 12-21 months. The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem and self-image.
Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called the "resting period," during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.