Getting new braces is a big step that will lead patients to healthier, more attractive smiles – but first, there’s the journey ahead. Getting used to you or your child’s treatment can feel like climbing a steep hill at first, which is why Dr. Michael and the team at OPD Smiles want to provide some helpful tips. If you ever have any questions or concerns that aren’t addressed below, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help!
When wearing braces, regular oral hygiene will require a little more time and effort on the patient’s part – but the results are more than worth it! Keep the following guidelines in mind:
If you experience an orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to contact OPD Smiles right away. Dr. Michael will make time for you or your child or soon as he possibly can. Here are some situations that our practice considers true emergencies, if you are unsure:
Genetics are the most likely culprit. Other possible factors include the premature loss of baby teeth, chronic thumb/finger sucking, the presence of serious dental disease, or traumatic dental injuries.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that this visit happen around the age of seven, and we wholeheartedly agree. The earlier we discover orthodontic problems, the easier it will be to correct them.
Not at all! Orthodontic treatment can be successful at nearly any age. Plus, with aesthetic options like Invisalign® and clear/ceramic braces available, it’s easier than ever to maintain a professional, mature appearance throughout the process.
Every case is different, but most patients can expect to spend one to three years undergoing orthodontic treatment. Dr. Michael will be able to share the expected timespan of you or your child’s particular treatment plan after a consultation.
This will depend on several different factors, such as the complexity of the problems at hand and the proposed length of treatment. Rest assured that our team will go over all of this information with you in clear terms before any actual care begins. We are in-network with several major dental insurance plans and also have financing options to make you or your loved one’s orthodontic treatment reasonably affordable.
Again, this will be on a case-by-case basis – there is no one right answer for every patient. Please keep in mind that it is very important to wear the retainer as prescribed, as teeth are likely to shift after the braces have been removed.
No, this is not possible. In fact, many people choose to wear their retainer overnight for the rest of their lives.
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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