About Orthodontics
For most people, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is the reason for receiving orthodontic care. If you're self-conscious about your smile, correcting your concerns with braces will greatly improve the way you look and feel.
When your treatment is complete, you will have the smile you've always dreamed of and the confidence to show it off! We also want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire orthodontic experience, and our practice is dedicated to making sure that you receive the quality care you deserve.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to the proper position.
Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can now choose clear or metal brackets and, in some cases, the color of your appliance. Wires are far less noticeable, and the latest materials are designed to move teeth faster with more comfort. Today, any age is a great age to wear braces!
Duration of Treatment
Treatment time varies and can last between one and three years, depending on several factors including age, treatment method, and how minor or severe your case is. A big factor in a successful treatment is you! The more involved and diligent you are, the more efficient your treatment will be. For children, receiving interceptive or early treatment can also help provide a quicker treatment time.
Before beginning your orthodontic care, your doctor will discuss all of your options and provide an estimate for how long your full treatment may take. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about orthodontics and the treatments we provide.
Regualr Appointments
The appointment when you initially get your appliances, whether it be braces, expanders, etc., usually takes 1-2 hours. You'll then see us at regular intervals every 8-10 weeks for an adjustment, which takes anywhere from 20-40 minutes. Patients are seen by appoinment only. We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately and cancel only if it is an emergency. It is difficult to reschedule you since most appointments are made 6-8 weeks in advance.
Scheduling Appointments
Visiting our office about every 4-8 weeks is an essential part of your orthodontic treatment. Our practice will work with you to make sure your appointments ar eas convenient as possible. When scheduling appointments, please let us know which days and times work best for you.
We understand that "life happes"! If you are runing late or need to reschedule, please let us know and we will do everything we can to accomodate you. When you're ready to schedule your first appointment, contact our practice and our friendly scheduling coordinator will assist you. We're looking forward to working with you.