FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We appreciate your interest in learning more about how we can serve you well. Below are a few frequently asked questions related to what we do, descriptions of services we offer, and what you can expect to experience at our office.

Of course, if you have additional questions, we're just a text or phone call away.

When should my child first visit the orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child’s first check-up with an orthodontist be performed no later than age 7. Why age 7? By then, your child has enough permanent teeth that problems with the jaws and the teeth could already be present. At this time, an orthodontist can evaluate the developing teeth and jaws and provide you with a wealth of information regarding your child’s dental development.

How do I know if my child needs orthodontic treatment?

It can be difficult to determine if your child needs braces because there are so many issues that can be present when the teeth look straight. Since orthodontics is all we do, we can help you identify if and when it is appropriate for your child to receive orthodontic treatment.

We would love for you to come see us for a complementary exam and we would be happy to make recommendations and discuss any treatment your child may need.

What could be recommended during the first visit?

At the first visit there are two potential recommendations:

No treatment/recall program. If the jaws are in a good relationship to each other and the teeth are developing and erupting well, your child may be placed in our recall program. Your child will then be seen periodically to monitor his or her jaw growth and to ensure the permanent teeth have enough room to come in properly. These recall appointments are at no charge to you. We just want to make sure there is nothing we can do to help correct a potential problem!

Early treatment is recommended. During the first visit, we may identify a problem that will not correct itself through normal growth and development and could cause damaging effects if left untreated. We will then discuss in detail all of your options, the reasons for recommending treatment, and what could happen if the identified problem is left untreated.

What is Phase 1 treatment?

Phase 1 treatment, also called “early or interceptive” treatment, refers to treatment that is performed while some baby teeth are still present. Phase 1 treatment is recommended if there is a problem that, if left untreated, could become more serious over time and cause negative effects to your child’s teeth and facial growth. The main goals of Phase 1 treatment are to guide the growth of the jaws to a harmonious place and to make sure there is adequate space for permanent teeth to erupt.

What types of early problems should I be concerned about?

Does every child need Phase 1 treatment?

If Phase 1 treatment is recommended can I wait?

What is Phase 2 treatment?

What is comprehensive/full treatment?

Can I play sports while wearing braces?

Life doesn’t have to be put on hold while wearing braces! Of course you can still play sports during orthodontic treatment. However, whether you wear braces or not, we always recommend the use of a mouthguard while playing sports to prevent injury to your teeth.

In case of a sports emergency, be sure to immediately check your mouth and appliances for damage. If you notice any loose teeth or appliance damage, please contact our office right away.

Can someone be too old for braces?

Of course not! It may be surprising, but adults make up 25% of orthodontic patients. Demand has increased dramatically in recent years due to the highly esthetic options now available to straighten teeth. Often times, many of our adult patients come in after their children have completed treatment and are excited because it is finally “their turn” since they may not have been able to have orthodontic treatment as a teenager. We love treating adult patients and seeing the positive impact a beautiful smile can have in their everyday lives!

Can I get braces if I have missing teeth?

Yes. Missing teeth can actually be the reason a patient gets braces. When there is a missing tooth, the surrounding teeth can tip into the empty space making it difficult to replace the missing tooth and can also lead to gum recession and problems with the function of the patient’s bite. Orthodontics can be beneficial in these situations and can be used to move teeth into the proper place before the missing tooth is replaced with an implant or bridge.

Will braces hurt?

The actual process of getting braces put onto the teeth is not painful at all! You should not feel anything when this is taking place. When the wire is placed into the brackets the patient will feel slight tightness on the teeth. For a couple of days after the braces are placed and after orthodontic visits, you may feel that your teeth are tender while eating, but it should not be painful. This discomfort can be relieved with an over-the-counter pain reliever (use as directed). Luckily, we use the latest braces technology in our office. The braces are smaller, more comfortable and allow for lighter forces to be used to move the teeth. This minimizes discomfort and treatment time.

How do I schedule an appointment?

I’ve Heard Of Other Options For Straightening My Teeth. Why Should I Go To An Orthodontist?

Orthodontists attend 2-3 years of additional schooling beyond dental school that is completely dedicated to learning how to best correct bite problems and to straighten teeth and have chosen to dedicate their entire professional lives to it. A lack of proper follow up and care can cause severe, permanent damage to a person’s teeth, gums, and bone. Frankly, the health of your teeth is too important not to see an orthodontist.

What You Can Expect On Your First Visit

During your first visit to our office, we will take complimentary photographs and digital x-rays and will then perform a thorough examination and discuss your potential treatment options. We realize that each patient’s needs are unique, and we believe that each person we see deserves personalized attention and an individualized treatment plan.

Dr. Floyd and Dr. Lindsey will take the time to discuss in detail your recommended treatment options and answer any questions you may have. We desire to build relationships with our patients and their families and this is a great opportunity for us to get to know each other. Our intent is to provide you with everything you need to feel well informed and comfortable. What you can expect is an open discussion and an honest assessment of your orthodontic needs provided by a team dedicated to serving you and your family well.

How often will I have appointments?

Is there a charge for the initial exam?

What will I learn during the first visit examination?

We look forward to meeting you and your family!