When should my child’s first visit to the Orthodontist be?
For children who need orthodontic treatment, there is a best time to begin treatment in order to achieve the best results. For this reason, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be examined by an orthodontist by age seven, or earlier if there are indications of a problem.
Why age seven? By age seven, most children have a mix of primary (baby) teeth and permanent teeth, and your orthodontist will be able to spot even subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth. Whether your child has an inherited predisposition to a "bad bite," such as crowded teeth or unequal jaw growth, or an acquired orthodontic problem, such as from thumb sucking or an accident, the advantage of early diagnosis and treatment is that some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they are found and treated early, during the years that the treatment may work in conjunction with your child's natural growth spurts. Waiting until your child's permanent teeth have come in or until her/his facial growth is nearly complete may make correction of some problems more difficult.
A check-up may reveal that your child's bite is fine and that he or she doesn't require treatment. In many cases, your orthodontist may simply want to watch your child and his/her orthodontic condition, doing periodic examinations to "keep an eye" on development. Any of these diagnoses ultimately will give you the peace of mind of knowing that you're doing the best for your child.
How much do braces cost?
During our free consultation we will be able to determine the cost for your treatment. Cost factors are treatment length and type of appliances. After Dr. Firth completes his complimentary full orthodontic examination, our treatment coordinator will be able to let you know your fees, treatment length, type of appliances available, and finanical payments. We offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs. For your convenience we have an interest free payment, outside financing that includes low fixed rates and no pre-payment penalties, and accept MasterCard and Visa.
Does Insurance cover braces?
Our office is committed to helping you maximize your insurance benefits. Dental insurance is a benefit provided to you, as arranged by your employer. We accept most traditional plans. As a courtesy to you we will bill insurance companies for services and allow them 45 days to render payment. Because insurance policies vary, we can only estimate your coverage in good faith but cannot guarantee coverage due to the complexities of insurance contracts. If you have any questions, our courteous staff is available to answer them.
Do I need a shot to get my braces on?
No, shots are not necessary for orthodontic treatment.
Can I return to school or work after getting my braces on?
Yes, there is no reason that you cannot return to school or work.
How do I schedule my first appointment?
Call one of our office locations and we will schedule you an appointment. Your first appointment is a free complete orthodontic examination.
Can I schedule my regular appointments before and/or after school?
Yes, we do offer before school and after school appointments for your regular adjustment appointments.
How often will my appointments be and how long?
Your regular adjustment appointments will be approximately every 4 to 8 weeks and 15 to 20 minutes long.
Can I drop off my child for their regular appointments?
Yes, but occassionaly we may need you to come into discuss treatment progress or re-scheduling appointments, so we ask that you call our office prior to appointment.
Can I play sports while in braces?
Yes, Dr. Firth recommends that you wear a mouth guard to protect your lips, mouth, and appliances.
Can you have braces with baby teeth still in?
Yes. Please click here to find out more reguarding our Phase Treatment.
What food can I eat with my braces on?
Avoid hard, sticky, chewy foods. To avoid appliance breakage, our office will provide a list of foods that you will want to avoid. Click here for the Orthodontic Eating Tips/List.