Click on your question below to find out the answer. If your question can not be found on the list, call us or send us an email.
Why should you choose an orthodontic specialist? top
Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training in growth and development, biomechanics, dental materials, and esthetic reconstruction that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments. Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed by someone who has studied and specialized in the field. For more information see American Board of Orthodontics, American Association of Orthodontists, or North Carolina Association of Orthodontists.
Is it required that my family dentist refers me to the orthodontist? top
No. Although we strongly recommend patients be referred by their family dentist, many patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves. This is o.k. as well.
At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening for my child? top
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition.
How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam? top
Simply call our office, send us an e-mail, or fill out our appointment request form online in the Contact Us section of this website. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you schedule this first appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information from you.
What will I learn from the initial examination? top
There are five essential questions that we will cover during the initial examination: Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it? What must be done to correct the problem? Will any teeth need to be removed or any surgery performed? How long will the treatment take to complete? And, how much will the treatment cost?
Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces? top
No, in most cases teeth do not need to be removed. However, removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics.
How long will it take to complete treatment? top
Treatment time obviously depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic needs. In general, treatment times range from 12 to 30 months. The “average” time frame for a person in braces is approximately 22 months.
How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work? top
It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until after the initial examination. There are many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will be sure to review these with you. Additionally, if you have orthodontic coverage on your dental insurance plan, we will review your insurance policy to help maximize your benefits and file your claims.
How often will I have appointments? top
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every four to ten weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
Can I drop my child off for an appointment? top
Yes. However, on some occasions, we may need to speak with a parent at the end of the appointment, so we ask that parents check in with the front desk before dropping off their child and when picking up their child.
Do braces hurt? top
In general, braces do not “hurt.” After certain visits, teeth may be sore or feel tight for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will help ease the discomfort.
Can I return to school or work the day I receive my braces? top
Yes. There is no reason to miss school or work because of an orthodontic appointment. In fact, please feel free to proudly display your accomplishment.
Do you give shots? top
No. Local anesthetic injections are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.
Can I still play sports with braces? top
Yes. However, we recommend a mouth guard for all sports, contact-sports in particular. We will gladly provide you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth and braces.
Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces? top
Yes! Regular check-ups with your family dentist are important while in active orthodontic treatment. We recommend at least 2-4 visits per year for examinations, fluoride treatments, and cleanings.
Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces? top
Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain all instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods to avoid include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). Please see the “Foods to Avoid” list at the end of this websites’ “Treatment” section. You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.
How often should I brush my teeth while in braces? top
Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss their teeth with braces. We can also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary. Please see “Brushing and Flossing with Braces” at the end of this websites’ “Treatment” section for effective oral hygiene techniques.
What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?top
If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone. If you have a true emergency, we will see you right away. Please see “Emergencies” at the end of this websites’ “Treatment” section if you’re not sure if you have an orthodontic emergency.
Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?top
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention before all of the adult teeth have come in. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that patient’s growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.
Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment? top
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called the “resting period,” during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.
Will my child need an expander? top
At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander to correct the width of a narrow upper jaw bone.
Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult? top
No way. In fact, a surprisingly large percentage (25 percent!) of today’s orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to both kids and adults.
Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth? top
Yes. A tooth with a crown or root canal will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. Additionally, when teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment can aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth, so that cemented bridge work or dental implants can be placed to restore missing teeth.
Do you use recycled braces? top
Absolutely not! Dr. Roberts does believe in recycling, but not your braces. Your braces will come new, sterilized and just for you.
