FAQs

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, such as misaligned teeth and jaws.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. Early evaluation can help detect potential issues and determine the best time to begin treatment if necessary.

Common signs of needing orthodontic treatment include crowded or crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and difficulty chewing or speaking. An orthodontist can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

The main types of braces include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces (placed behind the teeth), and clear aligners like Invisalign. Each type has its advantages and is suitable for different orthodontic needs.

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the case's complexity. On average, treatment can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months. Your orthodontist will provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific needs.

Braces may cause some discomfort or soreness, especially after adjustments. However, the discomfort is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax to protect the cheeks and lips from irritation.

Regular visits to the orthodontist are typically scheduled every 4 to 6 weeks to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. The frequency of visits may vary based on individual treatment plans.

Yes, orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teenagers. Many adults seek orthodontic care to improve their smile and oral health. Treatment options like clear aligners are particularly popular among adults.

While wearing braces, it's best to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the brackets and wires. Instead, opt for soft foods and cut fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces. Your orthodontist will provide a list of foods to avoid.

Proper oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser, and consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important.

Yes, wearing a retainer is essential to maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment. Retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions and prevent them from shifting back. Your orthodontist will provide instructions on how often to wear your retainer.

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies based on factors such as the type of braces, the complexity of the case, and the duration of treatment. Many orthodontists offer payment plans and financing options to make treatment more affordable. It’s best to consult with your orthodontist for a detailed cost estimate.

Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for orthodontic treatment, particularly for children. However, coverage varies widely, so it's important to check with your insurance provider to understand your benefits and any out-of-pocket costs. Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further information on these topics!

Children covered by New York State Medicaid or with a Medicaid or Child Health Plus component in their insurance plans are entitled to free braces (free orthodontics) if their condition meets the NYS Medicaid Orthodontic Program guidelines.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental and facial irregularities. At our practice, we focus on correcting bites, aligning teeth, and improving the overall function and appearance of your smile.

Orthodontists complete additional training after dental school to become experts in moving teeth, which allows us to provide you with the best possible care for your orthodontic needs.

We offer a variety of brace options to suit different needs and preferences. Traditional metal braces are a popular choice due to their effectiveness and affordability. For those looking for a more discreet option, we provide clear ceramic braces that blend in with your natural teeth.

Additionally, we offer invisible aligners like Invisalign® and 3M™ Clarity™, which use a series of clear trays to gradually move teeth into their desired position. Our team will help you determine the best brace option for your unique situation.

Early orthodontic treatment refers to any kind of orthodontic care received before all adult teeth have erupted, typically between ages 6 and 10. This phase, also known as Phase I treatment, focuses on guiding jaw growth and aligning teeth in preparation for future permanent tooth eruption.

By addressing certain issues early, we can potentially prevent more serious problems from developing, simplify future treatment, and even reduce the overall duration of orthodontic care. However, not all children require early intervention, and our team will assess your child's needs at their initial consultation.

The length of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the severity of your case and the type of braces or aligners you choose. On average, treatment can range from 18 to 24 months, but some cases may take longer or shorter.

Factors affecting treatment duration include your specific needs, how well you follow your orthodontist's instructions (such as wearing elastics and maintaining good oral hygiene), and the complexity of your case. Our team will provide a more accurate estimate during your initial consultation.

Your initial orthodontic consultation is an opportunity for us to get to know you, assess your dental needs, and discuss potential treatment options. During this appointment, we'll take X-rays and photographs of your teeth, as well as discuss your medical and dental history.

We'll then perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth, jaws, and facial structure to determine the best course of action for achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. This may involve a conversation about different treatment options, their benefits, and estimated timelines.

Invisalign® is a popular alternative to traditional braces that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. These custom-made trays are crafted from smooth, comfortable plastic and are designed to fit snugly over your teeth.

The nearly invisible appearance of Invisalign® aligners makes them an excellent option for adults or teens who want a discreet way to improve their smile. The aligners can be removed when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene and no food restrictions.

Caring for your braces involves a combination of excellent oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups. Here are some tips to help you keep your braces clean and healthy:

• Brush after every meal and snack, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss at least once a day, using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser to reach between your teeth and under the wires.
• Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage your braces.
• Attend regular dental check-ups and cleaning appointments as recommended by your dentist.

Our team will provide you with additional instructions on caring for your specific type of braces during your initial appointment.

If a bracket or wire on your braces becomes loose, broken, or causes discomfort, please contact our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for repair. In the meantime, here are some temporary fixes you can try at home:

• For a loose bracket: Apply orthodontic wax over the bracket to prevent it from irritating your mouth.
• For a broken wire: Use the eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire back into place, or clip it with nail clippers if necessary. Then apply orthodontic wax over the sharp or protruding end.

If you're unable to come in for an appointment right away, please let us know so we can provide further guidance and ensure your orthodontic progress isn't delayed.

During active orthodontic treatment, you'll typically have appointments with our team every 4 to 8 weeks. The frequency of these visits may vary depending on the type of braces or aligners you're using and the progress of your treatment.

At each appointment, we'll make adjustments to your braces or provide new aligners, monitor your progress, and ensure that everything is working as expected. These regular check-ups help us maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of your orthodontic care.

Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, we'll remove your braces or aligners and provide you with a retainer to maintain your new smile. Retainers are essential for keeping your teeth in their corrected positions as your bone and gum tissue adjust to the changes.

Wearing your retainer as instructed will help prevent your teeth from shifting back towards their original position. We may recommend wearing it full-time for a few months, followed by nighttime wear indefinitely. Regular check-ups with our team will help ensure that your smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.