Yes, but not in all cases. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. 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.

This addresses significant orthodontic problems early on, often to prevent these problems impacting self-esteem and self-image. If deemed necessary, this stage is usually initiated with children between the ages of 7 and 10. It usually lasts about 6-18 months.

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.

At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander.

After visits where we do orthodontic adjustments, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all!

Certainly! There is no reason you cannot return to school the same day.

Absolutely not! Each patient receives their own set of braces to achieve the best orthodontic result possible.

Yes, you can play sports while having braces. We recommend using an orthodontic mouth guard for all sport activities and we can provide this for you.

Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.

Yes. This would include foods like hard candy, ice, and sticky foods. Once treatment begins, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of foods to avoid and instructions on how to eat during treatment. You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.

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 and may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary. Here are some helpful cleaning tips!