Is orthodontic care very expensive?
Orthodontic Care is a long-term investment for your health and well-being. Yet its cost hasn’t increased as fast as many other consumer prices, and many financing options are available that make your orthodontic care affordable. Weighed against the true cost of living with problem teeth, however, orthodontic treatment can be a wise investment indeed.
When should braces and orthodontic treatment be started?
You’re never too old to begin your orthodontic treatment — but if you start at an earlier age, your problems may be easier to treat. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child who may need orthodontic treatment should come in for a first visit around age 7.
How often does my child have to come in for an appointment?
It depends on what your child is having done, and how often he/she will need to be monitored. During active orthodontic treatment, your child will typically come in to our office every 4 to 10 weeks.
How can I recognize if my child has a potential bite problem?
Teeth that are protruding, crowding together or erupting of positions are clears signs that your child needs treatment. Less obvious signs are mouth breathing, frequent biting of the cheek or palate, speech difficulties, and thumb sucking that goes past 3-4 years of age. If your child’s teeth don’t meet properly when their mouth closes, or if the jaw makes sounds or shift as they, this may also indicate an orthodontic problem.
Will my child need to have any teeth extracted?
If your child’s teeth are severely crowded (because their mouth is too small to properly accommodate all of them) — or if they have impacted teeth (teeth that are trapped beneath the gum line by other teeth) — then extraction may be necessary. In addition, early orthodontic treatment may make extraction unnecessary for our younger patients.
Does my child still need to see our regular dentist while they are getting orthodontic treatment?
Yes. In fact, it’s more important than ever! Keeping your child’s teeth free of plaque (and potentially, decay) can be challenging when wearing braces. Your dentist can help you avoid these problems with frequent cleanings and exams for your child.