What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
Who is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
What is the recommended age for my child’s first orthodontic visit?
The recommended age for your child’s first orthodontic visit is by the time he or she turns 7. This helps in early detection of any orthodontic problem and relevant intervention if required. It also reduces the need for expensive and complicated treatments later when your child grows up.
How do I identify the early signs of orthodontic problems?
If your child has crooked or protruding teeth, cross bites and misalignment or shifting of jaw are all symptoms of orthodontic problems. Early orthodontic intervention can help correct these problems easily.
What can I expect from my first consultation?
Your first consultation at Thurman Orthodontics is complimentary. After the initial assessment you get to know the following important things:
- Is there an orthodontic problem? If yes, what is it?
- What treatment plan can be undertaken?
- How long will the treatment period last?
- What will be the cost of the treatment?
Will I be able to wear braces if I have missing teeth and crowns?
Yes. In case of missing teeth, a suitable orthodontic treatment will help align the surrounding teeth correctly and a crown will shift just like a normal tooth with filling.
Do I have to get my teeth extracted if I choose braces?
You may or may not need to get your teeth extracted. While removing teeth may be sometimes necessary to get the desired orthodontic results, technological advancements have greatly reduced the need for teeth extraction for orthodontic treatment such as braces.
How much do you charge for the braces? Do you provide flexible financing options? How does my insurance work with the payment?
We cannot provide you an exact cost before examining you. At Thurman Orthodontics, we believe that cost should not be a barrier in your journey towards a perfect smile. Hence, we provide flexible finance options. To know more about how insurance works with your payment and our finance options, click here.
Will the braces hurt?
The types of braces available today are more comfortable then their traditional versions. You may feel slight soreness or discomfort in the beginning, but with proper medication (if required) and after a certain period you will get used to living with your braces easily.
Can I get my smile perfected with braces if I am an adult?
Yes. A majority of our patients are adults who choose braces to get a perfect smile. Click here to know more about our orthodontic treatment for adults.
Will I be able to continue my favorite activities like playing sports and playing instruments with braces?
Yes. Brace covers and mouth guards can protect your braces and teeth so that you enjoy your favorite activities like playing instruments and sports without any difficulties.
Do I need to avoid certain types of food while I have braces?
Yes. There are a few restrictions you need to keep in mind when it comes to eating with braces. Foods which are sticky, gooey, hard, sugary or chewy can harm your braces and in turn your teeth. So it is best to avoid such foods while you have braces. Our smile team will guide you regarding the eating do’s and don’ts with braces.
Will braces change my oral care routine?
Braces will only slightly alter your oral care routine. But you need to brush, floss and rinse with a mouthwash regularly because food particles easily and quickly get caught in your braces. We offer an orthodontic care kit post your orthodontic treatment of braces and guide you about keeping your braces clean effortlessly.
How do I floss without disturbing the braces?
Use waxed floss thread if possible so the act of flossing doesn’t create unnecessary friction. Thread the floss behind the wire of the brace. Gently push the floss between your teeth, up and under your gums. Finally rinse with clean water.
What is the purpose of phase 1 and phase 2 in a two-phase orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment involves laying a foundation for a normal jaw so that it can accommodate all of the permanent teeth. Phase 2 aims to correct the crowded or misaligned teeth with the use of full braces so as to ensure that your child’s teeth are in their correct positions. If you want to learn more about the two-phase treatment and its benefits, click here.
Can I wait for my child to turn older for the Phase 1 treatment?
No. If your child has been prescribed the Phase 1 treatment, it means that there is an urgent orthodontic issue which needs immediate attention. If there is a delay in the treatment it will increase complications and decrease the number of treatment options.
Do I have to wear retainers?
Yes. Your teeth may shift back to their earlier position, once your braces are removed. Hence, to retain the alignment of your teeth which has been corrected by the braces, it is important that you wear the retainers. To understand more about the importance of retainers, click here.
How long do I need to wear the retainers?
Retainers are worn full time for a few months after treatment. After the teeth have stabilized, the retainers are worn at night only indefinitely. We say “Nighttime for a Lifetime”.
Do I need to take special care of my retainer?
Retainers are easily breakable, so they should be handled with care as instructed by our smile team. They should always be stored in their case when not in use and cleaned gently before you use them every time. For more information on how to take care of your retainer, click here.
How do I schedule my next appointment?
Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all the information you need. Click here to schedule your free consultation.