Searching for a family orthodontist can be a strenuous process. Sorting through every area's practices and their offerings pays off when you find the right doctor for yourself or your child.
Part of your search process should include a consultation in which you can ask your orthodontist important questions. This blog contains ten of our patients’ most common questions and our answers. Read along and discover how to prepare for an orthodontic consultation to ensure you or your child receives the best care possible.
Questions to Ask At Your Orthodontic Evaluation
1. What are the different types of orthodontic appliances you use in your practice?
We provide Damon braces, titanium traditional braces, Invisalign aligners, retainers, and specialized equipment commonly used in preparation for jaw surgery (palate expanders), among many others.
2. At what age can I receive orthodontic treatment?
There is no upper age limit to orthodontia. Even if you feel you have missed your chance to align your smile, chances are you have not. We see a full range of patient ages in our practice.
Our leading professional society, the American Association of Orthodontics, recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation at about age 7. If dentists or parents have concerns before this point, a quick consultation with an orthodontist can allay fears or help parents plan next steps.
3. What are the different types of metal braces?
Our practice offers two advanced appliances: Titanium braces and Damon braces. Using Titanium in our brackets and wires allows us to treat patients who are allergic to the metals in stainless steel appliances.
Damon braces are special because they do not have ligatures (small elastic bands) tethering them to the archwire. This feature allows the teeth to slide along the wire and for us to use lighter, more biological forces. Damon braces can speed up treatment and make it more comfortable.
4. Why do some orthodontic patients prefer Invisalign?
Invisalign approaches orthodontic treatment with an entirely different method. Using precise 3-D models of your mouth, our doctors design a series of clear, medical-grade plastic aligners to move your teeth into their optimal positions. Each tray moves a few teeth at a time. You will change your aligners approximately every 1 to 2 weeks, and by the end, you will enjoy a well-aligned smile.
Invisalign provides comfort, discretion, and convenience compared to braces. However, there are certain orthodontic issues that clear aligners cannot address that braces handle very well. When you come in for your consultation, we will let you know which option would work best for your smile.
5. Is orthodontic treatment uncomfortable?
You may hesitate to seek an orthodontist’s care because you have heard stories about others’ discomfort. While there will always be a brief adjustment period while you become accustomed to wearing your appliances, you may find that it is not as much of a problem as your friends remember from decades past. Some mild discomfort may occur after adjustments or when you switch to the next Invisalign tray.
6. What should I do if I have a misaligned jaw or other facial differences?
We can work with you to help make your face and jaw more symmetrical and address airway problems that could be causing sleep apnea or other dangerous conditions. We work closely with trusted oral surgeons to perform orthognathic surgery to correct these differences.
7. Will I have to wear a retainer after my orthodontic treatment ends?
Ideally, you will wear a retainer indefinitely. Without a retainer, your teeth may one day slip back to their prior positions, negating the time and financial investment you put into correcting your smile.
8. Are your practice’s hours and locations convenient to my home, school, and work?
Ensure that any orthodontic office you visit does not require an extra drive. At Hass Family Orthodontics, we cater to Conover residents and those from the surrounding area.
9. Is orthodontic care covered by dental insurance?
Some aspects of orthodontic care may receive coverage, but complete orthodontic coverage may not be a feature of your plan. Always speak to your insurer before beginning treatment.
10. Do you offer any help with financing?
Ask our kind and knowledgeable office team to help you navigate your insurance benefits and explain our offerings.
At Hass Family Orthodontics, we welcome patients of all ages. We strive to make our services as convenient and comfortable as possible. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment today!