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FIRST VISIT |
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Your initial visit is an important opportunity for us to understand one another. It affords the chance to answer us any question you might have regarding orthodontic treatment. It also offers to us the ability to learn about you and how to make your future visits fun and fruitful.
Our main goal is to ensure that you understand the need for orthodontic treatment; we will take time to explain to you all our necessary treatment procedures each step of the way so that you may have a clear and better understanding of orthodontic treatment.
At this visit, we will give a detailed consultation in a fun and relaxed manner. We will then make a recommendation based on your specific needs. If treatment is indicated, diagnostic records which includes 1. Photographs, 2. Orthodontic X-rays, 3. Study models and 4. Intra-oral examination can be taken.
At the end of your visit, we will give you an information packet that describes your proposed treatment plans and also lets you know more about orthodontic treatment. It is our policy that the more you know about your care, the better decision you will make.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION |
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- At what age should I have an orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7 years.
- How long will the treatments last?
Treatment time depends on the severity of the orthodontic problem. In general it takes between 12 to 30 months with an average time of 22 months.
- How much will it cost for my braces?
It is hard to give an exact cost for treatment until consultation and examination are done. This will be discussed during your first visit. We will discuss all the options available to you like Insurance coverage, no down payment with credit approval and down payment with monthly installment.
- How often will I have appointments?
This is done according to each patient’s needs. Most patients will be seen every 4-8 weeks. If your treatment requires frequent monitoring, we will schedule accordingly.
- Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not “hurt”. But teeth may become sore after certain visits. In these cases pain medication like Tylenol and Advil will ease the discomfort.
- Are there foods I cannot eat while on braces?
Yes. Once in treatment we will explain and give detailed information on the list of foods to avoid. Some of which include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetable and sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). Emergencies due to broken or damaged braces can be avoided by following our instructions.
- How should I brush my teeth while on braces?
You should brush at least 4 times daily. Brush at any opportunity- after each meal and before going to bed. We will show you how to floss your teeth with braces on and may prescribe fluoride rinse if necessary.
- What is an orthodontic emergency?
Any situation that causes you serious discomfort is considered an emergency. However, most of these can be addressed over the phone. If you require to come into the office we advise that you call our office so we can set aside time for your visit.
- Is it late if I am an adult to get braces?
Heck no, if you want to improve your health, happiness and self-esteem, orthodontic treatment might help. No patient is “too old” to get braces.
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ORAL HYGIENE |
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- Tooth brushing: At least 4 times in a day, after every meal and before bedtime. Also an interdental brush can be used to clean around the braces.
- Flossing: At least once a day.
- Rinse: Use water or antiseptic mouth rinses.
- Retainers: Brush each time you brush your teeth. Soak it in a glass of room temperature tap water with denture cleaning tablet like Polident or Efferdent once daily. DO NOT use hot water or bleach.
- Food to avoid: Hard foods such as ice, pizza crust, sticky foods like licorice and caramel. Minimize high sugar foods like ice cream and cookies.
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EMERGENCY INFORMATION |
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There are very few true orthodontic emergencies. Most problems can be resolved at home. However, if you have a situation that you cannot resolve on your own, call us as soon as possible (703-753-4777) to get an appointment.
For sore teeth: Take Tylenol or other non-aspirin pain relievers. A warm washcloth, heating pad or warm salt rinses may help reduce the discomfort.
For wire irritation: Use cotton swab, eraser or comfort wax to hold the wire away from the cheek.
For loose brackets: Call our office immediately to schedule a repair appointment.
For lost separators: Call our office immediately for further information. |
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COMMON ORTHODONTIC PROBLEMS |
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When the teeth or jaws do not fit properly, orthodontic treatment may be required to straighten teeth and improve on the bite. These problems called malocclusion or bad bite can cause speech problem, wear of teeth, increase injury to teeth and jaws and inability to chew and swallow well leading to malnutrition. |
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1. Underbite
The lower jaws extends out causing the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth. |
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2. Spacing
May be caused by missing or malformed teeth. |
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3. Protrusion
Upper teeth extend too far forward or lower teeth
are too far back. |
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4. Crowding
Occurs when there are not enough spaces for all the
teeth. |
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5. Crossbite
The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth. |
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6. Overbite:
The upper teeth cover the lower teeth. Sometimes the lower teeth bite on the roof of the mouth |
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7. Openbite:
The upper teeth do not touch the lower teeth. |
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8. Midline shift
When the jaws or teeth have shifted. |
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