Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should my child be evaluated for orthodontic treatment?
While it is never too late to have orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontics recommends that a child be evaluated by the age of 7 or 8. A child's jaw should be developed enough at this age to diagnose any bite problems that may need to be addressed either immediately or in the future.

I am an adult, is it too late for me to have orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely not! There are many adults who were not introduced to orthodontics as a child and would like a beautiful healthy smile. Although research shows that our skeletal bone structure is more pliable at a young age, there are many treatment options that provide excellent results. Dr. Weiss is a certified preferred provider Invisalign provider, which offers a great alternative to traditional braces.

How long will I be in braces?
Treatment time varies considerably in orthodontics due to the different phases of treatment available, oral hygiene, and your commitment to maintaining appointments and following at home instructions. We can give you a pretty good idea on treatment time at your initial consultation but the rest is up to you.

Will it hurt?
The good news is there are no needles used in orthodontics! When teeth start to move and wires are replaced and tightened there may be some initial discomfort lasting a day or two. He overall experience is pain free and tolerable to most patients but in the event there is discomfort acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be administered.

Do I need retainers?
Retainers are a must for every patient after appliances are removed. For the first year a retainer should be worn 24 hours a day unless eating or brushing your teeth. This ensures that you “retain” the result that Dr. Weiss and you have worked so hard to achieve. After the first year we will recommend how often and for how long your retainer should be worn for continued orthodontic stability.

What do I do if I have an emergency?
In the event of any emergency call our office immediately. IF the office is closed there will be instructions on the message as to what to do. Most emergencies can wait until the next business day if the patient is not in any discomfort. It is quite normal during treatment to have few broken wires. We always appreciate a phone call warning us of any problems ahead of time so we can note the chart and be ready at your next appointment to repair anything that has broken.

How do I take care of my braces at home?
You will be instructed as soon as your orthodontic treatment begins as to proper care of your appliances. I is imperative to keep your teeth and appliances clean especially after meals as food can get trapped very easily in and around your braces. I food is allowed to collect in these areas your gums can swell and even bleed causing gum disease, which will bring your treatment to a halt until your hygiene is improved. You should brush your teeth 3 to times per day after each meal and floss with our special floss threader at least once a day. You will receive a “goody bag” with everything you need to ensure a healthy smile.

Can I still eat all the foods I am used to during treatment?
For the most part yes, but you may need to change how you eat some of them. Chewy or sticky foods like caramel, fruit roll-ups, gum or skittles should be avoided all together.

Foods like pizza, corn-on-the-cob, apples, and carrots can still be eaten but should be cut up into manageable pieces and chewed with your back teeth. Other foods to be avoided are hard items such as nuts, popcorn, ice cubes, bagels, pretzels, and sugary soft drinks. When it comes to which foods to eat or not eat use your best judgment. Remember that your braces are working overtime to move your teeth, however, wires and brackets are fragile and easily broken when faced with sticky or hard foods.

Do I still need to see my dentist?
It is extremely important that you see your general dentist during orthodontic care for regular cleanings and check-ups. We make sure to keep your dentist well informed with your ongoing treatment and work closely to maintain excellent dental health. It is also recommended to have a cleaning from your dentist before braces are placed.

Do you have payment plan?
Yes, there are many payment plans and options available to our patients, which are detailed, in our initial visit. We handle your insurance submission and work with employer flexible spending accounts as well. Most payment plans are worked up depending on the length of treatment requiring a lump sum down payment followed by monthly installments while wearing appliances. We also accept most major credit cards.

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