FAQs
We’ve answered some of the questions we regularly get asked.
If you can’t find the answer to your question, you can contact us and speak to one of our friendly team.
If you can’t find the answer to your question, you can contact us and speak to one of our friendly team.
Questions & Answers
General FAQs
What Is an Orthodontist?
All orthodontists are actually dentists, but only about six percent of dentists are orthodontists. They are dental specialists who are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists also are very skilled in preventing future dental issues. After completing dental school, future orthodontists must complete 2 to 3 years of specialized medical training and experience in an orthodontic residency.
Why Should You Seen an Orthodontist?
If you have questions about the alignment of your teeth, you should consider an appointment with an orthodontist. Parents often seek consultation with an orthodontist if their child has noticeably crooked or crowded teeth. Malocclusions like underbites or overbites are also common reasons to seek orthodontic treatment. If your dentist has expressed concern over a “bad bite,” seeing an orthodontist is a good step to take.
Other reasons to see an orthodontist include:
- Clenching or grinding teeth
- Difficulty chewing properly
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb or finger sucking in children
- Traumatic injury
- Cleft lip and palate
What Age Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist at age seven. This is when permanent teeth are coming in, so it makes sense to schedule an appointment around this time. However, orthodontic treatment can be started at any age.
Certain orthodontic problems that can be treated more effectively at a younger age. Once the permanent teeth have all come in and the jaw has matured, some cases can be more difficult to correct. Early treatment (also known as Phase One) can begin as early as age six. Phase Two begins at age 11 or older. The goal of early treatment is to correct jaw growth and certain bite problems, while also making room for permanent teeth to come in properly.
Even if it isn’t time to begin treatment for your child, it’s best to have him or her under observation with an orthodontist so you’ll know when the perfect start time arrives. Your initial consultation is free — and there will be no charge for follow-up observations until your child is ready for treatment.
What Does an Orthodontist Do Besides Braces?
When you hear the word “orthodontist,” do you automatically think about braces? While braces are central to the work of orthodontists, that is far from their only specialty. Orthodontists like the doctors with OXSmiles use different techniques and treatment approaches to improve your smile – including Invisalign® clear aligners, orthodontic appliances and many different types of braces. Technologies like Dental Monitoring® can speed up the effectiveness and shorten treatment time. The latest developments bring new ways for orthodontists to improve their patients’ smiles all the time.
How Much Does it Cost?
We have lots of different options including 12 to 24 month payment plans to fit any budget. View OXSmiles Pricing
Am I Too Old for Braces or Invisalign®?
No! You are never too old to improve your smile. We have patients in treatment from age 6 to age 80. Some adults who’ve had braces as a teen may have had tooth movement.
Do You Take Insurance?
Absolutely! We accept and work with dental insurance providers, so we’re happy to talk with your insurance company to determine your benefits for orthodontic treatment. We do this before or during your free new patient exam. Usually, if your insurance covers braces, it also will cover Invisalign® and other types of orthodontic treatment.
How Long Will It Take to Improve My Smile?
Teeth only move at a given rate. At about half a millimeter per month. Unfortunately it’s not like a baseball that if you push harder it goes faster! With remote visits your treatment stays on track and can end up completing in as little as 3 months. Ultimately, it can take as long as you want or need; there is always the option to pursue more aligners to progress a little farther.
Does it Hurt?
When you first start treatment you may want to take an over the counter pain reliever and eat a softer diet. Most people are back to normal in just a day or two and find that during the weekly change they are a little sore that day.
What Are Virtual Visits/Remote Appointments?
After your initial visit at the OXSmiles Center your future “visits” will be through your smart-phone. This means once a week you’ll use our special smart phone app to scan your teeth. Guided by sophisticated AI, your orthodontist will monitor your progress and let you know to keep in your current aligner or keep moving forward. We can even see if you’re ready for retainers and those will be mailed to your house when you’re ready!
Is it Safe?
You’ll be evaluated by orthodontic specialists and you’ll need clearance from your dentist prior to starting treatment. These are the same measures taken in traditional orthodontic specialist evaluations and treatments!
Do I Need an X-Ray?
Yes, you will need an x-ray before you start your treatment.The x-ray is for both you and your OXSmiles Orthodontist. The x-ray is used to examine the jaws and roots and to make sure it’s safe to move your teeth to a new position. You deserve orthodontist driven care.
Do I Have to See the Dentist During OXSmiles Treatment?
We highly recommend that you continue with your regular dental cleanings with your dentist. If you don’t have a dentist then we will refer you to a dentist conveniently located near you.
OXSmiles Treatment FAQs
What is Invisalign®, and How Does It Work?
Invisalign® uses virtually clear aligners (or trays) to gradually move your teeth into place for a beautiful smile. Using 3D computer imaging, Invisalign® depicts your entire treatment plan — from where your teeth begin to the final desired position. Then a series of clear trays are custom-made for you, to move your teeth in the way determined by your doctor. Using our app, each set is typically worn for a week, before switching to the next aligners in the series. With our oversight, we can catch discrepancies and give you advice on when to switch aligners. Aligners are ideally worn 20 to 22 hours a day. This straightening process continues until the end of the aligner series.
What Are the Benefits of Invisalign®?
- Discreet: Nearly invisible, no one will notice that you’re wearing Invisalign®.
- Removable: Take out your aligners to eat, drink, brush, and floss. No wires or brackets mean unrestricted eating, nowhere for food to get caught, and nothing to break.
- Comfortable: The smooth, closely fitted trays don’t irritate like wires or brackets can.
- Convenient: Play a sport or an instrument? Keep up with your activities without worries or changes in routine.
- Easy: Fewer appointments are needed, since you just switch to the next tray instead of having an in-office braces adjustment. And the appointments you do have take less time.
- Fun: We can show you how your teeth will look at the end of treatment right when you begin! Instead of imagining how much better your smile can be, you’ll be able to see it for yourself.
Do I Have to Limit What I Eat While in Treatment with Invisalign®?
No! Since the aligners are removable, you can eat and drink whatever you want. In fact, you have to remove your aligners to eat and drink. So, unlike with conventional braces that use wires and brackets, there’s no need to restrict any favorite foods or snacks unless your doctor instructs otherwise. To maintain fresh breath and good hygiene, you should brush your teeth after each meal and before you reinsert your aligners.
How Much Does OXSmiles Cost?
How Often Will I Have to Come in for an Appointment?
You can choose to come in for your smile simulation appointment or choose to order an OXSmiles Starter Kit. After that you can start and finish treatment from anywhere! For a small office visit fee you can visit your local OXSmiles Center, but only if you want to come in!
