- At what age should a child first visit an orthodontist?
- Why should children be evaluated at an early age?
- How old is too old for braces?
- Do you treat many adult patients?
- How are braces going to benefit me?
- Does your office accept new patients?
- What will happen at my first appointment?
- How long will I wear braces?
- How much do braces cost?
- Does your office give shots?
- Should I continue to visit my dentist with my braces on?
- What foods can I eat?
What is an orthodontist? (back to top)
An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in straightening teeth, correcting the bite, aiding in oral growth, and enhancing the facial profile. An orthodontist has successfully completed 2-3 additional years of advanced studies after his/her four years of dental school. Only dentists with this advanced education can use the title of “orthodontist”. Be careful when searching for an orthodontist; there are many dentists who are not specialists who practice orthodontics.
At what age should a child first visit an orthodontist? (back to top)
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children first see an orthodontist by age seven unless a problem is suspected at an earlier age.
Why should children be evaluated at an early age? (back to top)
Early evaluation and treatment helps to guide teeth into a more favorable position, save space for permanent teeth and reduces the chance of fracturing protruded teeth. In addition, it shortens treatment time, makes treatment easier and sometimes less expensive.
How old is too old for braces? (back to top)
There are no age restrictions when it comes to a person wanting to reward oneself with a terrific smile as long as that person has healthy teeth and supporting structures. In fact, our most mature patient just turned 72 years young!
Do you treat many adult patients? (back to top)
About 20% of our patients are adults. They realize that improving their teeth and dental health will result in positive changes in their personal and professional lives. Also, with technical advancements such as smaller brackets, tooth colored brackets, new wire alloys and invisible aligners, treatment has never been more patient friendly!
How are braces going to benefit me? (back to top)
Aligning your bite and creating a beautiful smile is one of the only investments that can last a lifetime if taken care of properly. Besides the obvious benefit of improved appearance, orthodontic treatment can lead to increased self-esteem, overall better dental health, reduction in speech problems/ dental injuries, and better function.
Does our office accept new patients? (back to top)
Definitely! If you are interested in comfort, confidence, and a peace of mind when it comes to your smile, call our office to set up a no-cost consultation. If you have had braces with us and are enjoying your new smile, please tell your friends and family about us.
What will happen at my first appointment? (back to top)
At your first visit you will meet with our treatment coordinator and Dr. Becker. Dr. Becker will examine your teeth and smile to determine what form of treatment will be needed. All treatment procedures are explained with the help of an interactive computer program. If needed, you may have a panoramic x-ray taken of your teeth. We will also be happy to answer any questions you may have.
How long will I wear braces? (back to top)
The length of time braces are worn depends on how much correction is needed. Dr. Becker will be able to give you an estimate at your initial appointment. Also, the better your cooperation with keeping teeth clean, arriving on time to all of your appointments, and wearing appliances/elastics as directed, the faster treatment can finish.
How much do braces cost? (back to top)
Treatment cost is based on several factors; length of time braces will be on, difficulty of the bite correction, and the type of braces the patient chooses (metal, clear, invisalign®, etc.). You will be informed of any fees before treatment is started. Financial options will be discussed during the initial visit. For your convenience you will be given an estimate for services along with several payment options from which to choose. We offer a discount for full payment at the start of treatment or we can finance (in-office, interest free) with a percentage down and the balance divided over the months of treatment. We also offer a finance company to make arrangements with you, if you choose. We also give graduated discounts for multiple family members.
Does our office give shots? (back to top)
No need to worry, we do not give any shots here.
Should I continue to visit my dentist with my braces on? (back to top)
Yes!! It is very important that you continue to see your dentist for your regular check-ups especially while your braces are on. Dr. Becker works very closely with your dentist to be sure you are getting the most complete care possible. Click here to download the Dentist Visit Certificate so you can earn Swipe N’ Smile Points!
What foods can I eat? (back to top)
The great news is there are many types of foods you can eat without worrying about damaging or breaking your braces. For example, you can still eat foods you would normally bite into by simply cutting the food into small pieces and chewing with your back teeth. This means you can still enjoy your favorites such as sandwiches, pizza, soft fruits, steamed vegetable, pastas, puddings, soups, soft tacos, hamburgers and much more!
Visit our Braces Friendly Recipes page and our Pinterest page for more examples of yummy brace-friendly foods.
