- Am I too old for braces?
The answer to this question is an emphatic NO. Over 35% of our patients are over the age of 18. Our adult patients find orthodontics can bring renewed self-confidence and take years off the wear and tear of an improper bite. Straight teeth are also easier to clean and will improve the chances of keeping your teeth over the years. Braces can be fun, make you feel ten years younger, and work the same whether you are 7 or 70 years old!
- When is the best time for braces?
Today, children are getting their permanent teeth earlier than the generation before them. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should be examined by age 7. Treatment at this age may begin if your child has a crossbite, overbite, underbite or finger habit. Even if your child does not have these conditions, having Dr. Elms monitor the eruption of your child's teeth may prevent greater problems later.
- How long will it take?
Treatment can vary depending on the severity of each case as well as the cooperation of the patient. Typically, people wear braces an average of two years or less. That may seem like a long time, but not for a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.
- Is financing available?
Elms Orthodontics offers different financial plans including prepaid discounts, no-down-payment plans and interest-free financing with a down payment. Dr. Elms will determine the fee based on the severity of your problem and will attempt to be as flexible with financial arrangements as possible.
- Do I have to be referred by my family dentist to schedule an appointment?
No, you do not have to have a referral to schedule an examination. Most of our patients are referred by their family dentist, but many patients are concerned about their health and appearance and they take the initiative to contact us on their own.
- Will my insurance cover it?
We accept all traditional orthodontic insurance.
- How often will I have appointments?
Appointments are scheduled according to each individual patient’s needs. Most people visit us every 5 to 10 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, appointments will be scheduled as necessary.
- Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not “hurt.” After some visits, teeth may be sore for a few days because the teeth are moving to their new positions. In these situations, remedies such as Advil, Tylenol, or warm salt water rinse can be used to ease the discomfort.
- Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
Yes, there are! You should avoid eating ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods such as taffy and caramel. Many emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces can be avoided by carefully following instructions regarding what foods to avoid.
- Will I have to wear retainers?
Orthodontics is a process of moving teeth through the bone into their new position. The use of retainers is very important to maintain the new position of your teeth! Like all parts of the body, your teeth are constantly changing and adapting. The longer you wear your retainer, the better your chances that your teeth will not relapse.
- Will I still be able to play sports?
Of course! You should, however, protect your smile by wearing a mouth guard when participating in a sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors.
- How do I get started?
The first step toward a new smile is to call our office at (979) 776-7900. We will schedule an examination appointment to determine your need for braces. If Dr. Elms decides you need treatment, he will prescribe diagnostic records, which include photographs, bite models and x-rays. The cost for records is $190. For your convenience, this can be performed at the examination appointment.
After completing the diagnostic records, a consultation can be scheduled to discuss financial arrangements, insurance payments and details of treatment. Soon, you will be on your way to a new smile!
