We have collected some of your most asked dental questions and done our best at answering them. If you don’t see your question here, try typing it in into the search bar or calling one of our offices.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
It depends on the individual, each case will be different. Learn more about their differences.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Braces will typically cost more as they tend to have a longer treatment time and require frequent visits to the dental office for adjustments. Reveal® Clear Aligners are an affordable option. We have treatment plans that start at $96 a month and $0 down, 0% interest. Please call the office number for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Please review our dedicated COVID-19 page to learn more about how we are protecting and servicing our patients during the COVID-19 outbreak.
There are multiple ways for you to inquire about your amount due. Please feel free to reach out to us at patcollsupport@smilebrands.com or reach out to your local dental office. If you would like to speak to someone please call 1-888-364-8522, tap Option 2 to connect with a patient account representative. Feel free to contact us regarding your bill.
There are multiple ways for you to pay your bill. If you would like to speak to someone please call 1-888-364-8522, tap Option 2 to connect with a patient account representative. They can help you process a onetime payment over the phone, set up reoccurring payment arrangements, and process Care Credit payments. The other option is to use the online payment portal. Note this only applies to patients that received a statement.
Yes we do! At the moment the payment portal only works for a patient’s that received a statement. If you do not have a statement, and you would like to inquire about your bill and/or the amount due, please feel free to do any of the following.
Please click on the link here to be routed over to the most frequently asked questions regarding the payment portal.
Yes you can! Click the links below to download and complete the forms prior to your appointment.
No worries! Just make an appointment it’s that easy. If you have dental insurance please bring your insurance card with you. We’ll start with an exam and x-rays to assess your current oral health. If any additional treatment is needed we can schedule a future appointment or if everyone’s schedule permits we may be able to start treatment the same day.
You can bring your child in for a checkup as soon as they have teeth!
Learn more about what to expect during a wisdom tooth extraction.
For the most part we try to accept State Insurance. Once you select your office location you’ll be able to see the insurance that is accepted. But if you’d rather, you can always give us a call to confirm.
1. Amalgam (silver filling) is the most thoroughly researched and tested restorative material among all those in use. It is durable, easy to use, highly resistant to wear and relatively inexpensive in comparison to other materials. For those reasons, it remains a valued treatment option for dentists and their patients. While questions have arisen about the safety of dental amalgam relating to its mercury content, the major U.S. and international scientific and health bodies, including the National Institute of Health, the U.S. Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization, among others have been satisfied that dental amalgam is a safe, reliable and effective restorative material. Because amalgam fillings can withstand very high chewing loads, they are particularly useful for restoring molars in the back of the mouth where chewing load is greatest. They are also useful in areas where a cavity preparation is difficult to keep dry during the filling replacement, such as in deep fillings below the gum line. Amalgam fillings, like other filling materials, are considered biocompatible—they are well tolerated by patients with only rare occurrences of allergic response. Disadvantages of amalgam include possible short-term sensitivity to hot or cold after the filling is placed. The silver-colored filling is not as natural looking as one that is tooth-colored, especially when the restoration is near the front of the mouth, and shows when the patient laughs or speaks. And to prepare the tooth, the dentist may need to remove more tooth structure to accommodate an amalgam filling than for other types of fillings. 2. Composite fillings are a mixture of glass or quartz filler in a resin medium that produces a tooth-colored filling. They are sometimes referred to as composites or filled resins. Composite fillings provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small-to-mid size restorations that need to withstand moderate chewing pressure. Less tooth structure is removed when the dentist prepares the tooth, and this may result in a smaller filling than that of an amalgam. Composites can also be ‘bonded’ or adhesively held in a cavity, often allowing the dentist to make a more conservative repair to the tooth.
The standard of care for missing teeth now are dental implants – as they are the most similar to your natural tooth structure and eliminate the need to change the structure of adjacent teeth. If you have a missing tooth you have several options. Each case would be different so it’s best to go into a dental office and get a professional opinion, but some options include: dental implants, fixed bridges, and partial dentures. The standard of care for missing teeth now are dental implants – as they are the most similar to your natural tooth structure and eliminate the need to change the structure of adjacent teeth.
Getting the care you need is our priority. That’s why we offer a range of payment options, including: Dental Insurance: We accept most dental insurance plans. Just give us a call to find out if we accept yours. In-House Savings Plan: If you don’t have insurance, take advantage of our OneSmile Dental Plan. For just $79 per year, you get free exams with x-rays plus 20 to 40% off on all dental services. Special Offers/Affordable Pricing: We offer affordable rates and special discounts to make it easier for you to get the dental care you need when you need it. Flexible Financing: Our flexible financing plans fit just about any budget with low monthly payments and interest rates. Don’t worry—we’ll help you find the best finance options for you and your budget.
Yes! We accept CareCredit and we have in-house financing to ensure you get the dental care you need.
Yes, we offer flexible payment plans featuring low interest rates and extended terms. Our team will help find you the financing plan that best fits your budget. We also accept most major credit cards and offer the OneSmile Dental Plan where members receive 20%-40% most dental services.
Yes we do, we offer $59 New Patient Exam & X-Rays* see disclaimer on coupon. Check out the Financing page to get a printable coupon.
We accept most major PPO and HMO insurances. Click on the “Accepted Insurance” button at the top of the page or call the office to confirm that we accept your specific dental insurance.
Yes we do! Our OneSmile Dental Plan helps you save up to 20% – 40% off all dental services including, Cosmetic and Specialty such as periodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, orthodontics and pedodontics.
It depends on your insurance and the type of coverage that you have. Typically most dental insurances will cover the fee of a dental cleaning every six months. Please call the office to receive more specifics.
Many dental problems including crowded teeth, missing teeth or jaw alignment problems are genetic. Other dental problems are the result of bad habits, such as thumb-sucking, using a pacifier, or poor oral hygiene that led to tooth decay and the premature loss of baby teeth.
When a dental emergency strikes, the first step is to call your dentist for an emergency appointment. In the meantime, here are some tips for relieving the pain and trauma of a dental emergency: Knocked-out tooth: Always handle a knocked-out tooth by its crown—the wide, top portion—instead of the root to protect the root from germs. If the tooth has dirt or other debris on it, run it under cold water but don’t dry it. Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket. If that’s not possible, store it in a container of milk and bring it to your dentist. If you get there within an hour, your dentist may be able to save the tooth. Tooth pain: A toothache is usually caused by an infection or abscess. If you still have pain after taking over-the-counter pain medication, you need emergency dental care. For immediate relief: press a cold compress to the portion of your face by the sore tooth, rinse with salt water and use oral numbing gel on the area. Swelling: If your face, jaw or gums swell, you may have a serious infection. Until you see your dentist, apply a cold compress to your face where the pain is, rinse with salt water and use over-the-counter pain relievers.
Yes we do! Give us a call as soon as possible so we can schedule your appointment and treat the issue quickly.
Any time you are in excruciating pain that over the counter medicine cannot treat or a tooth has been knocked out, it’s important to visit a dentist as soon as possible.
If your tooth gets knocked out act quickly and see a dentist within 30 minutes of the injury. Make sure to pick up your tooth and try to keep moist at all times. Sometimes placing it in a glass of milk until you can get to see your dentist. The sooner you see the dentist the more likely your tooth can be saved.
Yes we do, each one of our offices has a Google, Facebook and Yelp Reviews. Please feel free to check them out and read our reviews on our offices and doctors.
If you are a current patient at another dental office and wish to transfer over to one of our locations. You can either bring your files with you on your appointment or you can work with the current provider and ask them to send them to our office. If you have any questions feel free to always call the office.
Yes we do at most locations. Please call our office to schedule.
Looking for the best dentist can be confusing when there are so many choices. Here are a few questions you can ask to get you started: What type of dentist do I need? If you need routine dental work or aren’t really sure what you need, choose for a general dentist. If you’re looking to fix up your smile, you’ll want a dentist whose focus is cosmetic dentistry. For specialist services, like a root canal or oral surgery, search online for the type of work you need to find the appropriate specialists. Do they take your insurance or offer financing? Find out if the dental office accepts your insurance or provides financing. Some practices offer an in-house dental savings plan which can save you a bunch of money. Are the office hours convenient? Find out if the dentist’s office hours work with your schedule. For instance, you may prefer night and weekend appointments. Finally, check out online reviews to see what other patients are saying about your prospective new dentist.
Yes! We are accepting new patients. Check out our Your First Visit page.
A dental implant is a great way to replace a missing tooth. Here’s how it works: A tiny screw is first placed in your jaw by an expert dentist and then allowed to fully heal. When it’s all healed up, an artificial tooth—which matches your other teeth in shape and color—is attached to the screw. You wind up with a beautiful new permanent tooth that looks, feels and functions like your natural teeth.
Every case would be different so it’s best to get the professional opinion of a Cosmetic Dentist. Some options include, a small procedure if it’s just one tooth or veneers and dental crowns if you’d like a full smile makeover.
FDA rules mercury amalgam fillings safe. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s long-awaited final regulation on the use of mercury amalgam for dental fillings deems the material safe, while at the same time moving the material from the Class I (low risk) medical-device category to Class II (moderate risk). This allows for tighter control over its manufacture and use. Mercury amalgam, or ‘silver,’ fillings have been used for decades to repair cavities. It’s the cheapest filling material available, and the American Dental Association (which supports the new regulation) has long warned that restricting its use would deprive dentists of an important tool and likely move needed dental work beyond the reach of low-income patients. But many people have raised concerns about the potential for mercury to ‘leak’ from fillings into the body and cause neurological damage or diseases such as multiple sclerosis. An FDA press release announcing the decision reports: ‘While elemental mercury has been associated with adverse health effects at high exposures, the levels released by dental amalgam fillings are not high enough to cause harm in patients.’ Still, the agency suggests that amalgam package labels feature a warning to patients about the risk of mercury allergy, a reminder to dental professionals about the risk of working with mercury amalgam without proper ventilation, and ‘a statement discussing the scientific evidence on the benefits and risk of dental amalgam, including the risks of inhaled mercury vapor. The statement will help dentists and patients make informed decisions about the use of dental amalgam,’ according to the press release.
Sealants are a thin, plastic coating that are painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth — usually the back teeth (the premolars, and molars) – to prevent tooth decay. The painted on liquid sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. Typically, children are most cavity prone from ages 6 to 14 so the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends they should get sealants on the permanent molars and premolars as these teeth come in. Dental sealants can protect their teeth from decay for up to 10 years.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 100 million dental x-rays are done each year in the United States. These x–rays provide your dentist with a vital tool that shows the condition of your teeth including roots, jaw placements, and the overall composition of your facial bones. X-ray machines only produce radiation during operation and the amount of radiation used is small. Dental x-rays allow dentists to: Detect problems in the mouth such as tooth decay, damage to the bones supporting the teeth, and dental injuries (such as broken tooth roots). Detect teeth that are abnormally placed or don’t break through the gums properly. Evaluate the presence and location of permanent teeth growing in the jaw of a child who still has baby teeth. Plan treatment for large or extensive cavities, root canal surgery, placement of dental implants, and difficult tooth removals. Plan for orthodontic treatment, like braces.
A dental checkup is a careful examination of your teeth done by your dentist. It includes x-rays to uncover any problems that aren’t otherwise visible. Even though seeing the dentist may not be your favorite activity, getting checkups every six months save you time and money since they catch small problems before they become big ones. Your insurance should cover one-to-two dental checkups per year. If you’re a new patient with no insurance, you can save a bundle with our New Patient Special which includes an exam and a complete series of oral x-rays for only $39. Just call for an appointment and mention you are a new patient to get this special offer.
When it comes to replacing a single missing tooth, a dental implant will do much more for you than a traditional dental bridge. For starters, a dental implant should last the rest of your life. Dental bridges, on the other hand, break and wear out from time to time. And dental implants require no extra care like a bridge does. Plus, implants are so close to the look and feel of natural teeth, you’ll forget you even have them. If you’re missing several or all of your teeth, implant-supported dentures are the way to go. A huge advantage is implant-supported dentures are stable, they won’t slip or, even worse, fall out—no more embarrassing moments with friends. And because these dentures are attached to your jaw, you can kiss your gooey, messy adhesive goodbye. Best of all, implant-supported dentures are far more comfortable than traditional dentures. Implant-supported bridges and dentures may appear to be more expensive due to the higher upfront cost but in the long-term, they are most affordable because they are permanent—no ongoing maintenance and replacement costs.
Implants are definitely worth the time and money—here’s why: Lower dental costs, less dental work: When you bite and chew with dental implants, that pressure stimulates your jawbone and keeps it in good shape. Bridges and dentures don’t do that which can cause your jawbone to erode. You wind up with serious and expensive dental problems like loose teeth, extractions and more. Outlasts bridges and dentures: Dental implants can last for decades whereas traditional bridges usually need replacement every five to ten years. Look and feel like your natural teeth: Dental implants have another big advantage: comfort. Of all of the available tooth replacement options, dental implants look, feel, and perform most like your natural teeth.
Patients love dental implants because they get benefits like these: Better jaw health: Implants stimulate your jawbone which keeps it healthy. Without this stimulation, your jaw literally shrinks and thins out. This is called jawbone loss. Last a lifetime: With proper care, your dental implant could last for the rest of your life. No Dietary Restrictions: With implants, you can eat all the yummy foods you love. Easy to Care For: Brush and floss your implants daily along with your other teeth—no special care is needed.
Yes they are! All dentists have to pass rigorous board exams in order to get their license.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
You should floss everyday! The ADA recommends brushing twice a day and cleaning between teeth with floss (or another interdental cleaner) once a day. Some people prefer to floss in the evening before bedtime so that the mouth is clean while sleeping. Others prefer to floss after their midday meal. Our hygienists are experts at this! Book an appointment for a thorough teeth cleaning and instructions on the best way to floss.
Bleeding gums can be a sign gingivitis, or inflammation of your gums. It’s a common and mild form of gum disease, and it’s caused by a buildup of plaque at your gum line. It’s also possible to have bloody gums due to flossing, teeth brushing, chewing tobacco, or cuts. If bleeding is occurring when you brush your teeth it’s time to visit a dentist before the problem progresses.
Bad breath can be caused by many things. Systemic health issues or from food particles remaining in your mouth and causing sticky buildup of bacteria (also known as plaque) can form on your teeth. The latter can be remedied easily with a visit with your dental hygienist and then aftercare of daily brushing and flossing.
Sensitive teeth are typically the result of worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. Sometimes, however, tooth discomfort is caused by other factors, such as a cavity, a cracked or chipped tooth, a worn filling, or gum disease. There are things we can assist you with to help minimize your sensitivity. Please call our office and schedule a visit.
Every six months, twice a year is the recommended numbers of times you should visit your dentist or hygienist. Regular visits will help keep small problems (like tartar) from becoming bigger problems – like gum inflammation that can lead to tooth loss.
The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. Then, according to the American Adacemy of Pediatric Dentistry,as soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a ‘smear’ of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a ‘pea-size’ amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.
Have your child rinse their mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to ensure that there is no food or other debris caught between the teeth. In addition, the ADA recommends to place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. If the pain persists, contact your dentist.
A child’s primary teeth, sometimes called ‘baby teeth,’ are as important as the permanent adult teeth. Primary teeth typically begin to appear when a baby is between age six months and one year and help children chew and speak. They also hold space in the jaws for permanent teeth that are developing under the gums. The ADA recommends that a dentist examine a child within six months of the eruption of the first tooth and no later than the first birthday. A dental visit at an early age is a ‘well baby checkup’ for the teeth. Besides checking for tooth decay and other problems, the dentist can demonstrate how to clean the child’s teeth properly and how to evaluate any adverse habits such as thumbsucking.
Braces consultations are free of charge. This goes for Clear Aligners consultations as well.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether or not you have insurance. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. If it’s a small chip, and only a little bonding is needed the cost is minimal. If it’s more than just cosmetic, most often insurance will cover a portion. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
The ads you are seeing may be for veneers. They cover crooked teeth, but do not address the structure in the mouth or how the upper and lower teeth meet. Veneers are not permanent. Some require removal of significant amounts of tooth enamel. Orthodontic treatment is about aligning teeth and jaws so that they meet and function effectively. It just so happens that when teeth and jaws are functioning well, they look good, too.
Yes. We know you’re excited about your new smile, but you must wear a retainer to help keep your teeth in their new positions. Most patients wear a retainer for about a year; your orthodontist will tell you how long you need to wear your retainer.
There’s no time like the present, and healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Orthodontic treatment can create or restore good function, and teeth that work better usually look better, too. A healthy, beautiful smile can improve self-esteem, no matter your age.
Yes, keeping your teeth and braces (or other appliances) clean requires a little more effort on your part. Your orthodontist will explain how to brush and floss, how often to brush and floss, and give you any special instructions based on the kind of orthodontic treatment you are having. Be sure to follow your orthodontist’s dental hygiene prescription to get the best results possible. Check with your orthodontist about dental products and tools that might be helpful. Also be sure to get a professional cleaning and check-up at least every six months during your orthodontic treatment, or more often, if recommended.
Should your case warrant it, you might want to ask your orthodontist about lingual braces, which are attached behind the teeth. Ceramic braces may be another option to lessen the visibility of braces; they blend in with the teeth for a more natural effect. Additionally, the use of a series of clear aligner trays (invisible braces) instead of traditional braces may be used to correct some problems. Talk with your orthodontist about less visible treatment options that will help you reach your treatment goals.
Discuss this question with your OBGYN/physician/healthcare professional and orthodontist before you start any orthodontic treatment, as pregnancy brings on bodily changes that may affect the mouth. Soft tissues such as gums become much more susceptible to infection.
Yes, but make sure you wear a protective mouth guard. Ask your orthodontist to recommend the right kind of mouth guard while you are having orthodontic treatment. Keep your smile beautiful after treatment and wear a mouth guard at every practice and every game.
With practice and a period of adjustment, braces typically do not interfere with the playing of wind or brass instruments.
While you have braces, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet for the health of your teeth. Of course, a healthy diet is always important, but eating too many sugary foods with braces can lead to plaque build-up around your brackets that could permanently stain or damage your teeth. In general, patients with braces must be careful to avoid hard, sticky, chewy and crunchy foods. They should also avoid chewing on hard objects like pens, pencils and fingernails. And never chew ice. It’s much too hard on your teeth – even without braces. (Some other foods to avoid are: popcorn, corn on the cob and whole apples.)
Yes we replace and provide retainers. Book an appointment with one of our orthodontists right away to ensure your teeth don’t start shifting, we are more than happy to provide a new set of retainers for you.
Most implant consultations are free. Please contact the office nearest you to discuss the consultation and they’ll inform you if there are any fees associated.
Each case is different, unfortunately we cannot provide a specific price but you can call the office and we will do our best to answer your question.
The cost of an oral exam varies, and you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for this appointment, but at Bright Now we want to ensure you come in and get your oral evaluation – so we charge $59 for a new patient exam and x-rays. Thankfully, oral exams are usually covered by dental insurance plans. Even if you have to pay out-of-pocket, regular oral exams make dental care more affordable in the long term since they ensure problems are detected and treated early on. If you’re using insurance they’re typically covered at 100%.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
If you’re using insurance teeth cleaning (prophy) is typically covered at 100%. If you don’t have insurance we offer a great dental plan to reduce your out of pocket costs. One Smile Dental Plan is available and the office can sign you up or you may sign up directly.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the case. Please call the office number listed above for more information, we’re more than happy to help.
Clear aligner costs depend on the complexity of your case, the smile you’d like to have, length of treatment and if supplementary dental work is needed to get the desired result. Typically, the cost starts around $2,300 for a light case and increases with case complexity. And keep in mind, like braces, dental insurance should cover a portion of the cost. Your best bet is to book a free consultation. At your appointment we can give you an estimate of your costs based on the treatment plan your dentist recommends and we can contact your insurance company and find out how much they’ll cover. If your insurance doesn’t cover your entire cost, don’t worry—you have other options. If you have a flexible spending account, you can pay with pre-tax dollars. Or, you can take advantage of our $0 Down 0% financing (OAC). No matter which option you choose, we’ll help you figure it out so you can get the smile you want.
Your dentist or orthodontist will determine how long you’ll need to wear aligners to get the desired outcome. Clear aligners work by gradually shifting your teeth into their ideal position with a series of clear plastic trays which fit snugly around your teeth. Treatment begins by creating the customized trays (which are called “aligners”). When they’re ready, you’ll see your dentist or orthodontist to pick them up and they’ll instruct you on how to use them. It’s pretty simple. You’ll wear the first set of aligners for 2-3 weeks and then move onto the next set of aligners. As your teeth slowly move into position, you’ll change aligners until your dentist determines you’ve reached your goal of a healthy and beautiful smile. Treatment time for adults can be as few as 6 months and as long as 24 months, but 12 months is a common treatment time. Teens may take a bit longer. Either way, you’ll love your new smile!
The Clear Aligner world is changing rapidly – we have a new product Reveal® that will stay clear all throughout your treatment. Just rinse them under cool water and then brush them gently with a soft toothbrush. Rinse again under cool water and put the aligners back in place. You can drink water and other liquids while wearing your aligners, you only have to remove them when you eat. That’s to protect them from getting stained or damaged (chewing puts a bit too much pressure on them). But because your aligners are so comfortable, you may forget you’re wearing them! Make it a habit to remove your aligners before snacks and meals.
Yes, please contact your office directly in order to do so. We’re sad you have to cancel but we understand, and are also more than happy to help you pick another day or time that works for you.
No, we are doing everything we can do to keep your patients and staff safe. That includes not allowing anyone with COVID symptoms in the office. Please cancel your appointment and schedule it once you have been free of symptoms for at least 14 days.
Your medical and dental history info, including any medications you’re taking. Your dental insurance card (if you have insurance). Your parent if you’re under 18 (or if you’re over 18, but just want the company).
We will do our best to try to fit you in, please make an appointment if possible.
Please check our hours!
Thanks to advancements in technology, patients now have a variety of options when choosing how to straighten out their smile, such as: Traditional metal braces: These are the most common type of braces. They consist of stainless steel brackets cemented onto each tooth. A metal wire is then threaded through the brackets to gradually guide teeth into their proper position and a tiny rubber band wraps around each bracket to hold the wire in place. Metal braces with colored bands: You can add personality to your metal braces by asking your orthodontist to wrap brightly-colored rubber bands around the brackets. If you get tired of one color, you can change out your rubber bands during your orthodontic visits. Clear braces: Clear braces are just like traditional braces but use clear-colored brackets, wires and rubber bands. They’re less noticeable than their metal counterparts and for some patients, more comfortable.
Because everyone’s smile is different, it’s hard to say how long the duration of your treatment will be without consulting an orthodontist. It could be between one to two years or even more depending on how complex the case is. However, for adults that are seeking to correct a minor misalignment, duration of treatment could be a year or less. While wearing braces, you’ll visit your orthodontist every four to six weeks. How often you visit will be determined by your orthodontist. During these appointments, your doctor will replace the wire, and adjust to tighten to ensure your teeth are moving toward their final position in the appropriate time.
Braces can trap food and bacteria in a variety of places and cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. That’s why it’s important for patients with braces to be very diligent about their oral hygiene. Make sure to brush your teeth after every meal and snack with fluoride toothpaste. Clean the gum-line first using a gentle circular motion by holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums. Next, brush the brackets by firmly pressing your toothbrush against them. Make sure to brush around the brackets, wires, and under the wires as well. You can clean the chewing surfaces by moving the brush back and forth. Remember to floss your teeth when wearing braces. After flossing, rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to reach places your toothbrush can’t. We understand, it’s easy to forget regular check-ups and cleanings with your hygienist since you’ll be visiting the dental office often. It’s important that your dentist and orthodontist work closely together to ensure your oral hygiene stays on track during your orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic treatment can do more than make a smile beautiful by correcting gapped, crowded and misaligned teeth. It can also help you chew properly, speak more clearly, reduce or eliminate the need for jaw surgery, protect your gums from becoming unhealthy, and reduce or eliminate the need for extracting permanent teeth.
Braces apply gentle, steady pressure on your teeth to move them into their proper positions. A bracket is placed on each tooth. Then we bend a wire called the arch wire into the ideal u-shape we want your teeth to have. The arch wire is threaded through the brackets and as the wire tries to return to the u-shape, it moves the teeth with it.
The American Academy of Orthodontists recommends children see an orthodontist at the age of 7. Bite problems, called malocclusions, often become noticeable between the ages of 6 and 12 as the child’s permanent teeth erupt.
Phase I treatment, is a phrase used when someone is treatment for braces. This is also commonly called early treatment or interceptive orthodontic treatment, typically begins in children who still have a mixture of baby and permanent teeth. It’s typically started when the child is between the ages of 6 and 10. Early treatment is often used to help correct severe crowding, tooth eruption problems, bite problems, narrow jaws and protruded front teeth. Early correction may prevent the need for the extraction of permanent teeth or surgical procedures later. Braces may still be needed when all of the permanent teeth erupt, but the duration of treatment is often shorter
Phase II or full treatment in braces occurs when all permanent teeth are erupted, typically after the age of 11. The goal of Phase II treatment is to straighten your permanent teeth and align your jaw. Patients who have undergone both Phase I and Phase II treatment are more likely to have lasting results.
Your braces treatment will depend on your specific needs. Most patients with wire braces visit the orthodontist every 5 to 10 weeks. Patients with clear aligners typically visit the orthodontist once every four to six weeks. Your orthodontist will let you know your schedule.
Every patient is different. Most people need braces for 12 to 24 months, although some require up to 36 months of treatment.
Yes. You should continue with your regular dental checkups while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your family dentist will determine the intervals, and can advise you whether you should have your orthodontist remove the arch wires so the general dentist has better access for your dental cleaning. The arch wire would be replaced by your orthodontist after the cleaning.
Both braces and clear aligners are great treatments options that will get you your desired results for a beautiful smile. Although they both straighten teeth and correct misaligned smiles, they use different forms of treatment for achieving results. Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets, wires, and rubber bands to shift the teeth into the desired position. They are not removable by the patient and require constant cleaning and monthly adjustments. With Clear aligners, the patient is provided sets of clear aligners that fit snugly over the teeth to gradually shift them into proper alignment. You can remove them for eating as well as cleaning, which makes the process much easier compared to traditional braces. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are thermoplastic and clear, so they’re far less noticeable, considerably more comfortable, and will most likely have a shorter treatment time. And since clear aligners are removed during meals – there are no limitations regarding the food you can eat during your aligner treatment. Are clear aligners right for you? While a very popular option because of the lifestyle advantages it offers – aligners aren’t for everyone. Aligners are a great option for adults, traditional braces may be a better option for your child since you can’t lose or take off braces.
The holidays are here, bringing festive gatherings, cozy fireside moments, and cheerful times with loved ones. To help you make the best impression this season, we’re sharing some easy, effective ways to keep your breath fresh and your smile bright. With a few simple steps, you’ll be ready for every holiday encounter! Clean Teeth, Happy…
Read MoreOctober is here, and that means it’s October National Dental Hygiene Month! We’re excited to celebrate the amazing dental hygienists who keep our smiles bright and our teeth healthy. They do so much more than clean your teeth – let’s take a closer look at what makes dental hygienists essential members of your dental team.…
Read MoreDid you know September is Gum Care Month? That’s why we decided to share some tips and tricks to keep your gums healthy. Your gums are an important part of your overall oral health so make sure to give them the attention and care they deserve! Importance of Gum Care Your gums are the foundation…
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Orthodontics may be provided by general dentists.
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