About Treatment
This page explains the process we go through when you visit our office for orthodontic care to ensure that you receive the best care possible and that you are informed of all aspects of your treatment.The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect. Most orthodontic treatment begins between the ages of 9 and 14, but it is never too late for a beautiful smile and we see many adults as well as children. The initial orthodontic evaluation is complementary in our office. It’s never too late for a beautiful smile. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of an attractive smile. Adult orthodontic treatment has become increasingly popular to achieve a gorgeous smile with healthier teeth and gums. The patient’s diligent use of prescribed rubber bands or headgear and good hygiene are an important factor in achieving the most efficient and desirable results. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months. You can eat a regular healthy diet with your braces. You cannot bite into some foods like apples and carrots but you can cut them into bite sizes and chew them on your back teeth. Foods that are hard and chewy are best to avoid, like tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables. At first it is easier if you take small bites and chew carefully. Before long you will feel very comfortable to eat most foods. Initial Visit
Records Appointment If orthodontic treatment is recommended, the first step is orthodontic records. This appointment takes about 30 minutes, and involves a comprehensive exam, radiographs (x-rays), impressions for study models and diagnostic photographs. This material is necessary to permit a thorough evaluation of the orthodontic problem development of a treatment plan. In some cases we are able to take the orthodontic records on the same day as the initial examination. Treatment Consultation Appointment After we have studied the diagnostic records, we will present the treatment plan. Treatment objectives will be discussed in an effort to give you a clear understanding of the orthodontic goals. An estimate of anticipated treatment will be given. The fee schedule will also be finalized at this time. We will assist you in processing flex spending accounts and insurance benefits. Orthodontic Treatment After all the planning and communicating is completed, we’re ready to begin active treatment. Active treatment begins with a couple of one-hour appointments. We schedule our longer appointments at specific times during the day. The subsequent “adjustment appointments” are 15 to 30 minutes and are scheduled every 6 to 10 weeks. We have adjustment appointments available before school, after school and during the lunch hour. We respect the need to schedule as few appointments as possible during school hours. However, scheduling your appointment in advance allows you to select a convenient day and time for your appointments. Our office is open during many school holidays; these days fill up quickly so please plan in advance if you would like to be seen on these days. Retention Retention is an important part of stabilization and a beautiful smile for the rest of your life! Once your braces are removed you will be required to wear retainers. Retainer check appointments will be scheduled at regular intervals determined by your treatment. |