01. Do I need or does my child need orthodontic treatment?

The following signs may indicate that you or your child would benefit from a Get It Straight evaluation:

  • Thumb or finger sucking
  • Overlapping or crowding of permanent teeth
  • Broken or missing teeth
  • Difficulty chewing food
  • Mouth breathing due to allergies, enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids
  • Jaw joints which click, pop or are sore
  • Developing underbite, overbite, crossbite or abnormal bite development
  • Teeth wearing unevenly or excessively
  • Spaces between the teeth
  • Lower jaw shifts from one side to the other when biting together

02. What is the best age for treatment?

Each orthodontic situation determines its best treatment engagement. However, the American Association of Orthodontics recommends children be evaluated by an orthodontist by age seven.Sometimes it is recommended earlier if either a parent or the family dentist notes the problem.

Developmental problems relating to facial growth or eruption of teeth can often be improved or corrected, if diagnosed early. Orthodontic treatment, for any age, is possible as long as there is healthy bone, teeth and gum tissue.

03. What is an orthodontist?



04. What causes orthodontic problems?





05. Why is orthodontic treatment important?

  • To reduce or eliminate abnormal tooth wear or tooth loss

06. How long is the initial Get It Straight exam?





07. How long is orthodontic treatment?



08. What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

Phase I (early interceptive) is limited orthodontic treatment occurring before all permanent teeth erupt. This treatment, which can include a palatal expander or partial braces, is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth and to correct crossbites, overbites, underbites or harmful oral habits.

Phase II treatment involves the application of full braces once all permanent teeth have erupted, typically between the ages of eleven and thirteen. Females’ permanent teeth normally come in one year earlier than males’ permanent teeth.

09. How does orthodontic treatment work?




10. Do braces hurt?




11. How are braces removed?



12. Will braces interfere with playing sports?

No. However, we recommend that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard during any sporting activity. We supply our patients with special orthodontic mouth guards that come in a variety of styles and colors. Please let us know if you require one when treatment begins.

13. Will braces interfere with playing a musical instrument?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. Brace covers or wax are provided to prevent discomfort while the lips and cheeks callous. Your orthodontic hygienist will instruct you on how to apply wax when the braces are placed. Please let us know if you play a musical instrument.

14. How long are retainers worn?



15. Should I see my general dentist while I wear braces?


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