Q. What age do you recommend that we bring our child to come see you?

A. We would like to see your child by age 7. This is consistent with the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

Q. Another orthodontist has told me that my child needs a Phase I treatment? How do you feel about early treatment for my child in your office?

A. Early treatment is necessary in certain cases to address developmental problems and habits. Examples can include dental cross-bites, thumb sucking habits and improper eruption of permanent teeth. The majority of cases are best treated only once when the patient has most of their permanent teeth.

Q. What makes an orthodontist different?

A. An orthodontist has an extra two to three years education beyond dental school strictly in orthodontics.  Orthodontic residency is a highly intensive three years of your life that you devote to mastering the art and science of moving teeth. We also attend continuing education on a regular basis in orthodontics so we are up to speed on every new and exciting treatment.

Q. What if my child is not ready for treatment today?

A. We are not going to start treatment on your child until it is the perfect time. We will place your child on our “recall system.” Every six months, we will bring you and your child in for a check to see how their growth and development is progressing. We will continue to track your child at no cost until they is ready for treatment. Once your child is ready for treatment, it will be a seamless process to get started. The information that we obtain while monitoring your child will be very important in planning their treatment.

Q. How long will our orthodontic treatment take?

A. Treatment time varies with each patient but on average is about 15-30 months. We will partner with our patients to ensure that they do their part (take care of their teeth and wear appliances) so treatment time will be minimized.

Q. Is orthodontic treatment required? My teeth seem pretty straight.

A. Orthodontics is more than straight teeth. Moving teeth to correct dysfunctional bites is the main focus of orthodontic treatment. Having a great bite to match the perfect smile ensures a healthy mouth for a lifetime.

Q. Does your practice treat adults?

A. Absolutely! Today’s orthodontics offers great treatment opportunities for adults.  Beautiful teeth are important at any age. We have had patients in their 70s years choose to start in treatment. For those adults that prefer an “invisible” option, we offer Invisalign which is a series of removable, custom-made clear aligners that work to perfect your smile. Our adults in Invisalign love the convenience and results.

Q. Is Invisalign only for adults?

A. No! We now offer a new product called Invisalign Teen. For teens that do not want to wear braces, Invisalign Teen is their favorite option. This product is also custom made, clear aligners that can be removed. This option fits great into your teen’s lifestyle and can really simplify treatment.

Q. If I have any questions about my child while in treatment, how accessible are you?

A. My office is an open concept. If you choose, you are invited to come back and sit with your child during appointments. I am happy to discuss treatment progress with you at any time. You may also call our office any time and ask to speak to me. If I am with a patient, then I will call you back at my first opportunity. If you have an urgent matter after business hours, please feel free to call the office so I can be reached to talk with you directly. Patients First!.