Treatment FAQ

Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with High Plains Orthodontics?

No. 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. Several permanent teeth in most children erupt by this age, allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition.

 

Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?

No, the space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.

 

How do I schedule an appointment for an initial consultation?

Call our office or fill out our appointment request form online. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information from you.

 

Schedule Your Free Consultation

 

 

What will happen at the initial examination appointment?

Upon arriving, each patient will be seen by the staff and orthodontist who will acclimate you to our office and prepare for the initial exam. If needed, we take photographs and x -rays to allow us to make a proper diagnosis. The doctor will then complete a brief exam.

 

What will I learn from the initial examination?

There are five essential questions that we will cover during the initial examination:

- Is there an orthodontic problem?

- What must be done to correct the problem?

- Will any teeth need to be removed?

- How long will the orthodontic treatment take to complete?

- How much will the orthodontic treatment cost?

 

How long will it take to complete orthodontic treatment?

Treatment time depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem. In general, treatment times range from six to 30 months.

 

Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?

It is impossible to give an exact cost for orthodontic treatment until we have examined you. The initial consultation is complimentary. At the completion of the Dr.'s exam and treatment proposal, we will then discuss the cost and financing for the complete care. We have many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help maximize your benefit and file your claims.

 

Learn more about Finance and Insurance

​

 

How often will I have appointments?

Appointments are scheduled per each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every four to eight weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.

 

Can I schedule all my appointments after school?

Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. Because most appointments are scheduled four to eight weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatment. We will 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 we 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 with their patient manager before dropping off their child.

 

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 do not feel any soreness at all.

 

Learn more about Life with Braces

​

 

Do you give shots?

No. Shots are not necessary during orthodontic treatment.

 

What is an emergency appointment?

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 make an appointment quickly for you.

 

Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has some 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.

 

What is Phase One (early) treatment?

Phase One treatment, when necessary, is usually for children between the ages of seven and ten. Phase One treatment lasts about t9-12 months. The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe.

 

Will my child 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. 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is “too old” for orthodontics!

 

Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist for orthodontic treatment?

Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.