When is the recommended time for your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children receive an orthodontic screening by age 7.
Early treatment may help prevent physical or emotional trauma. An orthodontic examination at this age could detect problems that benefit from early treatment. Even if the patient doesn’t require treatment at that time, the parent has peace of mind in knowing that their child has had an evaluation at the appropriate time by an orthodontist.
What type of problems benefit from early treatment?
- Early or late loss of teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking
- Crowding, misplaced or blocked out teeth
- Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
- Jaws that are too narrow, too far forward, or too far back
Do you offer payment plans?
We are very flexible and can individualize a payment plan that suits your financial situation. Finances should never prevent you from getting the treatment that you or your child need. Please talk to our staff and they can help make a financial plan for you. In office financing includes some form of down payment, (usually 25%), with the balance being paid over 22 months unless we make alternate arrangements with you. There are no finance charges associated with in house financing. We also have an outside company that will finance for longer periods of time and can do so without a down payment. This company has a competitive finance charge associated with this repayment plan.
Do you take my insurance? Can I come to your office if you are not in my insurance network?
We accept most major insurance plans. In addition, we are able to work with most insurance plans that are not listed as in-network. Our knowledgeable front desk team members are happy to determine your insurance benefits for you. Often times they will know the answers to your questions from their experience with other patients who have your insurance plan. Just call our office, (856) 727-0177; if we don’t know the answer already we will be happy to investigate for you. We do the work for you.
Are appointments scheduled during school hours?
We make every attempt to schedule our appointments during non-school hours. However, it is necessary to schedule longer appointments during school hours. Luckily, the majority of appointments are shorter in length and are scheduled during after school hours.
Does my child need to see his regular dentist during treatment?
Yes, orthodontic patients must maintain good oral hygiene with regular dental check-ups and cleanings with their family dentist every 6 months.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the correction necessary. Patient compliance with treatment also has a great impact upon treatment length. Being on time for your appointments and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping treatment time on schedule.
Will braces interfere with playing sports?
No. However, when participating in any sporting activity, it is recommended that patients protect their teeth by wearing a mouth guard. Mouthguards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors.
Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
No. However, there may be a period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort.
Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: gum (regular and sugar free), ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.
Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?
If you or your child can potentially benefit from orthodontic treatment, simply call our office. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information from you.
What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
This first appointment is very easy and may be the most comfortable dental appointment that your child or you have ever had. Upon arriving, each patient and parent will be greeted by our courteous staff. Your paperwork will be reviewed and you will be escorted to a private room for your initial exam. The doctor will then complete a brief, but thorough, exam. He will then discuss his findings with you and your concerns.
Can I drop my child off or can a friend or grandparent bring my child in for an appointment?
Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may need to speak with a parent during an appointment or when they return. If we know in advance that we will need to speak with you, we will try to let you know when the appointment is scheduled. For our child patients, a parent or legal guardian is needed for the initial examination appointment.
What should I do in case of an orthodontic emergency?
Only the most severe emergencies may require immediate attention by an orthodontist. The majority of emergencies are easily treated with a follow-up by the orthodontist. Click here to view Handling Orthodontic Emergencies Procedures.
