At OPD Smiles, we always want our patients and families to feel confident about visiting us for ongoing care. That’s why Dr. Michael, Dr. Russell, and the rest of our team are happy to answer any questions – all you have to do is contact us. For added convenience, we’ve compiled some of the most popular FAQs we hear regularly and their answers below. We also have several orthodontic FAQs available here.
Our doctors believe that it’s never too early to schedule a first visit! Even if your son or daughter is too young to undergo an examination, they can still interact with our team and become used to the sights and sounds of the practice, which will help them start to form a positive relationship with the dentist right away.
Generally, a first proper appointment should be scheduled when the child’s first tooth pushes through the gum line or when they reach their first birthday – whichever comes first.
Pediatric dentists like Dr. Russell have undergone multiple years of specialty training beyond the typical dental school education, learning how to treat infants, young patients with special needs, and children of all ages. Because of their precise focus, they are better equipped to handle behavioral difficulties, complex care needs, and other situations that a family dentist may be incapable of addressing. You wouldn’t take your child to your own physician. You would take them to a pediatrician. This is the same as taking your child to a pediatric dentist.
Yes! Baby teeth are the building blocks of a child’s smile, helping them learn how to speak clearly and chew food properly. They also lead the way for developing permanent teeth, holding space open in the mouth for their eventual emergence. If your son or daughter loses one or more baby teeth extremely early, be sure to let our team know.
In most cases, parents shouldn’t worry too much unless this “bad habit” starts to go on for a very long time. Most children will grow out of sucking their thumb soon enough, but if they’re still regularly doing so past the age of three, we ask that you let us know.
There’s no limit! Dr. Michael is happy to treat adolescent children, teenagers, parents, and even grandparents, helping every member of the family determine the best orthodontic solutions for their unique smile needs and goals. Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment can even help our younger patients get a headstart on the improvements they need to enjoy a healthier, more confident set of teeth. Don’t hesitate to contact us in Lucas, TX if you’d like to schedule a first consultation.
Absolutely. In addition to the traditional braces model, teenagers and adults may be prime candidates for Invisalign® clear braces. Instead of brackets and wires, our patients will wear clear, custom-made aligners that are barely even noticeable when worn. Clear/ceramic braces are another image-friendly option with a much subtler and more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
OPD Smiles is an in-network provider with several major dental insurance plans, and we are happy to file claims on your family’s behalf as well to maximize available benefits. Please visit our new patients page to learn more.
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about straightening teeth – it can improve your child’s developing bite, prevent dangerous overcrowding of teeth, fix breathing and swallowing problems, help them speak more clearly, and improve their self-confidence as well! Dr. Michael offers a wide variety of services that are a great fit for every age group with a personalized touch.
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It’s never too early to get children started on the right path towards a healthy, happy smile that lasts for life. Dr. Russell has plenty of experience with treating infants, toddlers, school-aged children, teenagers, and everyone who falls somewhere in-between. Better yet, his pediatric care approach will grow with patients over time in order to keep them feeling at ease.
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