How can I tell if my child should have an orthodontic exam?

Check for the following early warning signs:

• early or late loss of teeth
• difficulty in chewing or biting
• finger sucking or other oral habits
• crowding, misplaced or blocked out teeth
• speech difficulty
• biting the cheek or into the roof of the mouth
• protruding teeth
• teeth that meet in an abnormal manner or don't meet at all

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that orthodontist first evaluate children at age 8. Although only a few of the patients need treatment at this time, we can often improve improper growth and prevent future problems. For some of these problems, early intervention is essential for a good result. Should your child not be ready for treatment, our office will monitor growth and development on a regular basis.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in braces for both children and adults. Orthodontists have completed Dental School, just as your family dentist, but have also had additional Master's Degree training for an additional 2-3 years. During specialty training the orthodontist learns not only about placing braces but also studies the growth and development of the jaws. Because of their background, orthodontists can determine developing bite problems at very early ages.

What does it mean to be board certified?

This board certification signifies a unique achievement, a large step beyond two or three years of advanced education required for a dentist to become a specialist in orthodontics. Board certification is a 5-10 year process requiring great preparation and the completion of three phases of the exam process.

What is the psychological impact of orthodontic therapy?

Treatment may reduce appearance-consciousness during the critical development years. Appearance can have an effect on popularity, social behaviors, self-expectations, personality style, and self-image. Also, orthodontic therapy may lessen the likelihood that a child will be picked on by other children.

Adult orthodontics may positively affect career patterns, social acceptance, and self-confidence.

Why is the adolescent growth spurt so important in orthodontics?

This is a time when much of the growth of the face occurs. Treatment during this period provides an opportunity to favorably influence the facial profile in a growing child. Once growth of the facial bones are complete, correction of jaw discrepancies usually requires surgery. For this reason, early treatment may save considerable time and money.

Do many adults get braces?

Many patients in our practice are adults and the percentage appears to be growing. Adults are often hesitant at first when making the decision to get braces, but after they are in appliances, they find it is not as difficult as they expected. They also discover that braces have no effect on how others perceive them.

What are some possible benefits of orthodontics?

• a more attractive smile
• reduced appearance-consciousness during critical development years
• better function of the teeth
• possible increase in self-confidence and interpersonal effectiveness
• increased cleanability of the teeth
• improved force distribution and more even wear of the teeth
• guiding permanent teeth into more favorable positions
• preventing breakage of protruding front teeth
• aiding in optimizing other dental treatment

What can I expect from the first appointment?

One of our treatment coordinators will take digital photos of your teeth and a panoramic x-ray. She may ask you some questions to pass on to Dr. Haeger and he will then do a thorough examination to assess current or future orthodontic needs. We will discuss various treatment alternatives, the optimal time for treatment, and any fees associated with orthodontic treatment. If you are ready to proceed at your first visit, we may take some additional x-rays and molds of the teeth in order to get you started. Committing to treatment at this first visit elimates a couple of future visits and will result in a $100 savings off your full orthodontic fee. We will then discuss some of the do's and don'ts of braces such as what you can and cannot eat. Occasionally, we may place separators (one of the frist steps toward getting braces) at this first appointment, but in most cases the treatment coordinator will call you back in about one week to schedule the appointments to actually put your braces on.

How much do braces cost?

Orthodontic fees will vary depending on the complexity of the bite problem. Bites with more severe problems usually require additional treatment time (and additional fees) than a less complicated bite. Some bites require expansion appliances while others do not. Because every person is different, each case is evaluated independently. At the first visit — if the patient is ready to start — we will estimate the fee and explain what is included. In addition, our staff will help devise a payment plan which best meets your needs.

What payment options are available?

In an effort to keep orthodontic fees down while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we have established the following financial policy.

Payments:

1. When treatment is started the day of the initial exam appointment, we will offer a $100 savings off your full orthodontic treatment fee.
2. When full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a 5% savings off any portion of the fee not covered by insurance.
3. To fit the needs of our patients, a financial arrangement can be made to extend your payments over a period of months following an appropriate down payment.
4. For your convenience, we offer direct deposit services from personal bank accounts.
5. Outside financing is available with NO initial payment and longer monthly terms through Orthodontic Fee Plan (www.feeplan.com).

Do you accept my insurance?

If you have insurance, we will assist you in determining the available coverage. As is typical, we ask that you assign your insurance benefit to us. Payment arrangements can be made for the balance. Professional care is provided to you, our patient, and not to an insurance company. Thus, the insurance company is responsible to the patient and the patient is responsible to our office. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions for our office on your behalf.

How long do I have to wear braces?

The length of treatment varies for each individual. In cases where only limited treatment is required, treatment may be as short as 6-12 months. Individuals requiring full treatment can expect approximately 18-30 months.

Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance; maintaining good oral hygiene, keeping regular appointments and good elastic wear are all important in keeping treatment time on schedule.

Can I just wear a retainer to fix my bite?

Retainers are usually used at the end of treatment to hold the teeth in their new position. Retainer type appliances can sometimes be used to correct bite problems. Dr. Haeger can evaluate your bite to see if a retainer is all that is needed.

Do braces hurt?

Although there is some discomfort when braces are placed and after some adjustments, discomfort usually lasts only one or two days. Some of our patients take Tylenol or Ibuprofen after selective appointments. However, most patients are surprised that the braces do not hurt as much as they expected.

How often do I need to be seen?

It takes several appointments at the beginning to get treatment started. Once treatment is underway, appointments are usually 4-8 weeks apart.