Orthodontics is the area of dentistry concerned with supervision, guidance and correction of dentofacial structures. Orthodontic treatment uses braces, retainers, and other appliances to correct any dentofacial abnormalities. Regular dental check-ups and orthodontic treatment are proven effective tools in helping establish and maintain good oral health for people of all ages.
Orthodontists undergo two to three years of extensive and specialized training beyond dental school. Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children visit an orthodontist around age 7. By this time, most children have several permanent teeth showing which allows us to effectively assess the orthodontic condition. For adults, a visit to the orthodontist can be done anytime to improve the appearance of their smile, as well as overall dental health.
No. Age is not a factor. About 25% of orthodontic patients in the United States are adults. Today, braces are more comfortable and more effective with a variety of options for treatment.
Treatment time varies for each patient depending on their individual case. Generally, patients are in treatment 8-30 months, though the “average” patient is in braces 18-24 months. Keeping scheduled orthodontic appointments, maintaining proper hygiene and taking care of your braces may allow you to finish your orthodontic treatment early.
Your initial orthodontic visit will give you an opportunity to meet the doctor and our knowledgeable staff who will answer any questions you may have regarding orthodontic care. A course of treatment and an estimate of the treatment timeline and fee will be decided. If braces are needed, a convenient appointment will be made for your fitting.
In addition to traditional metal braces, we also offer clear (ceramic) braces, Invisalign braces, and Damon brackets. Find out more here.
Typically, braces do not “hurt.” After treatment visits, you may experience some minor soreness, but ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to ease discomfort.
Once you begin treatment, we will give you specific instructions and provide you with a complete list of foods to avoid while wearing braces. Hard, sticky, or crunchy foods can damage braces and should not be eaten during treatment. Most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces can be avoided by carefully following our instructions.
Orthodontic patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. We will demonstrate how to floss teeth with braces and may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary.
Yes. However, we recommend wearing a mouth guard in contact sports or any sport where there is a chance you can get hit in the face.
Retainers help keep your teeth straight at the completion of treatment. If they are not worn as instructed, your teeth may move or tend to relapse. Retainers are particularly important right after the braces are removed while the teeth stabilize.
Orthodontic fees depend on the complexity of the case, the age of the patient, the type of appliances used, and the estimated length of treatment. Since each case is different, a visit to the office for a complimentary examination will allow us to better estimate the fees. We offer flexible payment plans that allow for affordable orthodontic care with low monthly payments.
Many insurance plans now cover some portion of orthodontic treatment. Contact our offices in Gainesville and Ocala for a list of insurance providers we accept. We will ask you to provide us with your insurance information at your first appointment.
Gainesville