North Attleboro Orthodontics FAQ
Do you have questions about an appointment or your orthodontics? Ask our expert!
- Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the orthodontist?
No, it’s not required. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, yet many other patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.
- At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age seven. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate their orthodontic condition.
In most cases, treatment will not begin until an older age. However, there are a handful of conditions that are best treated early.
- Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
Unfortunately, we can’t schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. Any appointment longer than 45 minutes will be scheduled in the morning.
However, because most appointments are scheduled six to eight weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments. We will, however, make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.
- Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Yes. We understand your busy schedule and are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check-in before dropping off their child.
See you soon at North Attleboro Orthodontics!
- How often will I have appointments?
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every three to eight weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we’ll schedule appointments accordingly.
- Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goals of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.
- 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. Each treatment plan is created specifically for the patient, so the cost can vary. However, we will be able to give you a ballpark figure after your exam.
After Dr. Smith develops your treatment plan, we’ll present the final cost at the conference appointment. At the conference, we’ll also present several financing options to accommodate your needs. Our team also reviews your insurance policy, helps maximize your benefits, and files claims on your behalf.
Please contact us for your orthodontic consultation in North Attleboro, MA.
- Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not “hurt.” After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients don’t feel any soreness at all!
- 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’re in braces.
- Are there foods I can’t eat while I have braces?
Yes. Once treatment begins, we’ll explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include ice, hard candy, raw vegetables, and all sticky foods. You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.
- Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness, and self-esteem are vitally important, no matter your age!
No patient is “too old” to wear braces! Dr. Smith has treated patients as old as 80. Our North Attleboro, MA orthodontic practice also offers Invisalign® clear aligners.
