




3. Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?

Only occasionally will teeth "spontaneously" straighten. More often than not, crowding will persist or worsen with time. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow, but rather space is gained behind the last teeth as the jaws grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.



5. What will happen at the initial examination appointment?

Upon arriving, each patient and parent will be seen by the staff and doctor who will acclimate you to our office and prepare for the initial exam. We will take the necessary photographs to allow us to make a proper diagnosis. The doctor will then complete a brief, but thorough, exam.


6. What will I learn from the initial examination?


  • What must be done to correct the problem?
  • Will any teeth need to be removed?
  • How long will the treatment take to complete?
  • How much will the treatment cost?

7. Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?

Removing teeth is occasionally required to achieve the best orthodontic result, but in most cases it is not. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.

8. How long will it take to complete treatment?




10. How often will I have appointments?

Appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every four to six weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.

11. Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?


12. Can I drop my child off for an appointment?


13. Do braces hurt?



Yes. There is no reason for not returning to school because of placement of braces.

15. Do you give shots?

No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.

16. Do you use recycled braces?


17. Can I still play sports?

Yes. We recommend a mouth guard for all sports.








If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, if possible, we may address these issues over the telephone. However, if you require an emergency appointment, we will promptly make arrangements for you to be seen.



23. What is Phase One (early) treatment?

Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 5-14 months. The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem and self-image.



25. Will my child need an expander?

At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander. In most cases, an expander is only utilized if there is a cross bite of the back teeth.


A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is "too old" to wear braces! Teeth retain the ability to move throughout one's life. Don't let them continue to shift and become more crowded, allow us to move your teeth into an optimal position for improved ease of cleaning and a beautiful smile.



28. Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?


Surbeck Orthodontics

