FAQ

How long will it take to complete treatment?
Treatment time obviously depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problems. Teeth move at different rates depending on age, bone density, the severity of problems, and patient compliance. Treatment times can vary greatly.

How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?
It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined you. We will cover the exact cost and financial options during the initial examination. We have many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy to help maximize your benefits and file your claims.

How often will I have appointments?
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. On average, most patients in braces are seen at 3-4 week intervals. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.

Can I schedule all of my appointments after school/work?
Most appointments can be made after school/work. Longer appointments such as putting on and taking off braces must be made during the hours of the later morning or early afternoon. Otherwise, the majority of your appointments can be scheduled at your convenience.

Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Yes. We understand you may have a busy schedule and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. Occasionally, we may request to speak with a parent once they return, so please check-in with our office coordinator before dropping off your child.

Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not hurt, however, some degree of discomfort can be expected from time to time. After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, a pain medication such as Advil will soothe the discomfort.

Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
Yes. There is no reason to miss school because of an orthodontic appointment.

Do you give shots?
No. Shots are not necessary for orthodontic treatment.

Do you use recycled braces?
Absolutely not! It is our belief that each patient should be provided with their own braces to achieve the best orthodontic result possible.

Can I still play sports?
Yes. We offer a mouth guard for all sports. A mouth guard will be provided to our patients if one is needed at no additional charge.

Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.

Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. A general rule of thumb is to avoid foods that are sticky, crunchy, or chewy. Some of those foods include ice, hard candy, raw vegetables, bagels, and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). Most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces can be avoided by carefully following our instructions.

How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?
Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. Brushing should last 2-3 minutes each time. We will show each patient how to floss his or her teeth with braces and may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary.

How to use wax?
Wax can be used on rough spots that may cause soreness to the lips and cheeks for a short acclimation period. Simply rub a small piece of wax between your fingers until warm, dry off the area that is bothering you, and place the warm wax on the dry surface.

What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone. If you require an emergency appointment, we will set aside time for you. Please click here to learn more.

Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that patient’s growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.

Dr. Logeman does not believe in putting someone in braces twice. He also does not believe in keeping someone in braces when it is not necessary. Therefore, in most cases Dr. Logeman will wait until most of the permanent teeth are in before starting with braces.

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 6-12 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. Early intervention can often prevent surgery later! Most commonly, the first phase would address a skeletal problem.

Will my child still need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called the “resting period,” during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.

Will my child need an expander?
At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander.

Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
No! In fact, a surprising percentage of our patients are adults and 25% of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness, and self-esteem are vitally important at every age. No patient is “too old” to wear braces!

Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like any other tooth. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.

What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist who does orthodontics?
An orthodontist is a “specialist” in the treatment of orthodontics. He or she has attended a 2 or 3-year graduate orthodontic program AFTER dental school and obtained another degree. General dentists are legally allowed to do orthodontic treatment, but they do not have the extra formal training that an orthodontist has. By definition, the term “orthodontist” means the doctor has completed certified training in the field of orthodontics.

To put it into perspective – would you rather have your family practitioner or a heart surgeon performing open heart surgery for you