The first appointment is the “initial examination”. This appointment allows the doctor and the staff the opportunity to meet you or your child and to obtain basic information regarding any current or potential orthodontic problems. A medical and dental history are obtained as well as a thorough clinical evaluation and documentation of any orthodontic problems. A panoramic x-ray (screening x-ray) may be taken, if you do not have or bring one, to evaluate the development of the teeth, the presence or absence of any teeth, and the integrity of the supporting dental structures. After examination, general questions regarding the nature of the orthodontic problems (if any), type of treatment required, estimated time of treatment, and when treatment should be initiated, will be answered. If treatment is recommended after the initial examination, diagnostic records will be required so that the doctor can further evaluate the problems and propose a recommended plan of treatment. If treatment is not indicated at the time of the initial examination, he will suggest a recall regimen to monitor the child’s growth and dental development.

Once the initial examination has been completed, the staff can address any financial concerns and discuss the payment options available through our office. We will be glad to explore any orthodontic insurance benefits you or your child may have.

Note: If orthodontic treatment is indicated, it is very important that you or your child has seen your family dentist for a checkup within the past six months. If any cavities are to be filled, these should be completed prior to initiation of the orthodontic treatment.

Appointment Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes.

What To Bring (If you have them)

A recent (within the last 6 months) panorex or full-mouth series of x-rays taken by your dentist.
Any orthodontic diagnostic records that may have previously been taken.
Any orthodontic insurance information (cards, booklets, etc.) so that we can determine your benefits.
The completed patient information and medical history form was mailed to you after you scheduled the initial evaluation appointment.
Any referral information or letters that may have been given to you by your dentist or physician.

What To Expect (TMJ or TMD Exam)

The initial examination appointment is to determine the basic nature of your “TMD” problems and discuss the possible treatment modalities available to address these problems. A thorough evaluation of your medical and dental history as well as the effectiveness of any previous “TMD” treatment that has been rendered, will be investigated. A comprehensive clinical evaluation will be performed to assess and document areas that can contribute to jaw-related pain and dysfunction. A panorex (screening x-ray) will be taken, if you do not have a recent one, to evaluate any abnormalities in the jaw joints, teeth, and the supporting structures of the teeth. After the initial evaluation, further diagnostic information may be necessary to establish a proper diagnosis and plan of treatment.

Once the examination is complete, a financial estimate of any necessary treatment will be discussed by a staff member before treatment is initiated. If you have dental or medical insurance, we will be happy to determine if you have any benefits covering “TMD” treatment.

Appointment Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

What To Bring (If you have them)

A recent (within the last 6 months) panorex or full-mouth series of x-rays taken by your dentist.
Any records that may have previously been taken to evaluate your “TMD” problems.
Any dental or medical insurance information (cards, booklets, etc.) so that we can determine your benefits.
The completed patient information and medical history form was mailed to you after you scheduled the initial evaluation appointment.
Any referral information or letters that may have been given to you by your dentist or physician. More on this website

Crooked teeth and teeth grinding are very common and suffered by almost 60 percent population of the world. Also, about 80 percent people of the total population of the world have misaligned bite. There are several reasons that can cause this. These conditions can give you jaw pain or ear clicking so these should not be taken lightly. Usually, dentists and orthodontists advise their patients to wear braces for crooked teeth. Braces are actually a type of strong holder that holds teeth together tightly at their proper place. Braces are usually made of wire, however, you can also purchase transparent braces which are made of clear material. Cost of Braces depends upon many factors which are explained below:

It is a common problem that people who face teeth misalignment, don’t go for brace treatment because of its high cost. It is a common perception that braces can cost a hefty amount, however, it is not always true. You can purchase braces at a very economical price if you know the factors that decide the cost of braces. There are different factors that you need to consider while analyzing cost of braces. These factors may include structure, material, brand, manufacturer, and size, For example, you will find ceramic braces at a high cost as compared to metal braces, however, ceramic braces are cheaper.

The cost of braces also depends on their visibility. For example, lingual braces are one of the most expensive braces available in the market. These braces are totally invisible because they are cemented on the inner surface of teeth.

The cost of braces is a serious problem for those people who can’t afford them. There are many people who can’t pay $3000 or more at once. Such people can purchase their braces easily through credit plans. There are many dental clinics that are offering different credit plans to their patients. Inquire about a payment plan. More Information on this website

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Depending on the nature of the problem, orthodontic treatment can be started at various ages. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw development has ended. Frequently, minor interceptive procedures can prevent damage to the teeth from developing or, in minor skeletal imbalances, the need for future surgery. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child visit an orthodontist by age 7 if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child’s physician.

Child patient at the orthodontist – close up

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. In our office, interceptive procedures are utilized only on a limited basis. Several recent studies have indicated that in most instances, two-phase treatment does not produce an enhanced final result and frequently adds additional unnecessary expense. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment; it usually involves full braces and is started when most of the permanent teeth have erupted.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment can be undergone at any age. In a growing patient, orthodontics utilizes the growth and development process to achieve the correction. That growth is completed in an adult, so a slightly longer treatment time may be required.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces apply a gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their correct positions. The main components of braces are brackets and arch wires. When the arch wire is tied into the brackets it applies pressure to move the teeth to their new, more ideal positions.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from 12 to 30 months. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the problem. Treatment progress is also dependent upon patient compliance. This includes following instructions, not damaging the braces, and keeping regularly scheduled appointments.

Do braces hurt?

The placement of bands and brackets on teeth does not hurt. Once braces are placed and activated with the archwires, the patient may experience some soreness for a short period of time. Until they adapt to the appliances, lips and cheeks may experience some irritation.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

No. However, patients should wear a mouthguard when participating in any sporting activity. Specific mouth guards designed for patients with orthodontic appliances should be used. Our office can provide these.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleanings and dental checkups. In patients where hygiene is a problem, cleanings and fluoride treatments at four-month intervals are recommended.

Is it necessary to have teeth removed?

Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve a stable orthodontic result. Today, the trend in orthodontics is to avoid removing teeth whenever possible. The final decision depends on the nature of the problem.

How often are appointments scheduled?

This varies with each patient. Generally, patients are seen every three to eight weeks.

Can all appointments be scheduled after school?

Our office routine is to schedule short appointments in the afternoon and longer appointments in the morning. Unless the patient damages the braces, most of the appointments are short appointments and can be made after school.

Must a parent or guardian be present at each appointment?

This is not generally necessary. Working parents frequently have friends or relatives bring children to their appointments. Messages are sent home with appointment slips and we will contact the parents if we need to speak with them.

Can the patient return to school after braces are placed?

Although patients frequently take the day off, there is no reason that they cannot return to school.

Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?

In general, hard foods (ice, raw vegetables) and sticky foods should be avoided while wearing braces.

How often should teeth be brushed while in braces?

Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. In addition, we recommend that a fluoride rinse be used just before bedtime.

What are retainers and are they necessary?

Retainers are devices designed to hold the teeth in their new positions following the removal of braces. They should be worn by all patients after active treatment is completed. The wearing time will vary from patient to patient. More information on our other Website