Office Info

Whether it be a first visit a regular checkup, we look forward to seeing children of all ages!  During your child's first visit, they will receive comprehensive care by a pediatric specialist and we will go over methods to maintain proper oral care including brushing techniques, how pacifier use affects your child’s growth, and more.

During your new patient exam, the orthodontist will assess whether you are ready to start orthodontic treatment and will determine what records will be necessary for evaluation prior to orthodontic consultation.  New patient exams and consultations are complimentary however records will be taken as part of the orthodontic fee.  The records usually consist of photos, x-rays, and impressions of your teeth which are needed to properly treatment plan each case.

What is a Pediatric Dentist?

The pediatric dentist has an extra two years of specialized training and is dedicated to the oral health of children and those with special needs from infancy through the teenage years. The very young, pre-teens and teenagers all need different approaches in dealing with their behavior, guiding their dental growth and development, and helping them avoid future dental problems. The pediatric dentist is best qualified to meet these needs.

When should I bring my child to the dentist? 

Referral by the primary care physician or health provider has been recommended, based on risk assessment, as early as six months of age and no later than 12 months of age. (American Association of Pediatric Dentistry)

What is a dental home?

The dental home is the ongoing relationship between the dentist and the patient, inclusive of all aspects of oral health care delivered in a comprehensive, continuously accessible, coordinated, and family-centered way.  The dental home should be established no later than 12 months of age and includes referral to dental specialists when appropriate. (American Academy of Pediatric Dentists reference manual)

How often should I brush my teeth?

Oral hygiene measures should be implemented no later than the time of eruption of the first primary tooth.  Tooth-brushing should be performed for children by a parent twice daily, using a soft toothbrush of age-appropriate size and the correct amount of fluoridated toothpaste. (American Academy of Pediatric Dentists reference manual)

How much toothpaste should I use?

The correct amount of fluoridated toothpaste should be used twice daily.  No more than a smear or rice-sized amount of fluoridate toothpaste should be used for children under age three; no more than a pea-sized amount should be used for children ages three to six.

How important is my diet?

In short, a sufficient diet low in sugar and carbohydrates is very important to a child’s oral health.  
According to the AAPD, “Many adolescents are exposed to and consume high quantities of refined carbohydrates and acid containing beverages.  The adolescent can benefit from diet analysis and modification.”

When do the baby teeth first erupt?

The first baby tooth usually erupts on the bottom anterior at about six months of age, and completion of all baby teeth around the age of three.

Why are my child's teeth wiggly?

Between the ages of six and 12, all baby teeth will start to make room for big teeth.  The big teeth push the baby teeth out, which is why baby teeth become wiggly.

When should my child be off the bottle?

Breastfeeding greater than or equal to seven times daily after 12 months of age is associated with increased risk for ECC [Early Childhood Caries].  Night time bottle-feeding with juice, repeated use of a sippy or no-spill cup, and frequent in between meal consumption of sugar-containing snacks or drinks (e.g., juice, formula, soda) increase the risk of caries [cavities].

What is an Orthodontist? 

The orthodontist has an additional three years of specialized training and is dedicated to aims to prevent, diagnose and treat maxillofacial and dental irregularities.  There are many debilitating problems associated with misalignment, for example, speech defects, difficulties chewing, difficulty maintaining adequate oral hygiene, and airway/breathing problems.  The orthodontist is best qualified to address these concerns.

​ At what age should my child's first visit to the orthodontist be scheduled?

The AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) recommends that a child's first visit to the orthodontist should be at the age of seven.  By this age, most permanent teeth have erupted and will allow us to effectively evaluate his/her orthodontic condition.  

Will I need to have teeth removed for braces? 

Removing teeth is sometimes necessary for a successful orthodontic result.  However, the patient's age, severity of crowding, facial profile, and bite are all taken into account when making this decision.  If having teeth removed is chosen as an option, it is because the outcome will be a lot more predictable and harmonious.   

Will I need surgery? 

There are sometimes discrepancies in jaws that limit the effects that orthodontic treatments can have.  This can be caused by development, trauma, or certain syndromes.  Surgery is a very uncommon treatment option but it will always be discussed if the result obtained will be better than treatment with braces alone.  

How often will I have appointments?

Appointments are typically made only once a month.  However, we are very accommodating to each patient's needs and schedules.

Do braces hurt? 

Generally, braces do not hurt, but they may become a bit uncomfortable, usually only in the beginning of the treatment.  Braces are like getting a new pair of shoes: they are a little uncomfortable at first to break in, but after some time you do not even notice they are there!  

Can I still play sports? 

Of course!  We provide specially made mouth guards for braces upon request.  

Are there certain foods that I cannot eat while in braces? 

Unfortunately, yes.  Once treatment begins, your doctor will go over with you which foods will be harmful to your appliances.  Most orthodontic emergencies are caused by eating foods that have damaged the wires and/or brackets.  

Will my child need x-rays? 

X-rays are a necessary part of orthodontic treatment.  They are extremely low dose, and are only taken once for diagnostic purposes and at each finish.  X-rays provide a way to analyze the face and skull of the patient as well as provide information about each patient's growth patterns and characteristics.  

What is an emergency appointment?  How are they handled? 

There are very few actual emergencies with braces.  If there is trauma to the face (e.g., from falling face first or receiving a ball to the face), you should call us immediately.  However, most orthodontic emergencies consist of a broken bracket or a pokey wire.  These are easily resolved with a few over-the-phone instructions.  

Is it too late to have braces if I am an adult? 

Absolutely not!  The ADA reports that 1.5 million adults comprise part of the orthodontic population in the United States, which is roughly 25% of the total patients in treatment!  This is due to the abundance of orthodontic options that make braces inconspicuous.  We offer many great options that are considered "invisible braces" and are great for those who are looking for the more discreet alternative.  

I want to straighten my teeth, but I don't like how the braces look.  Are there other options for me? 

Of course!  We offer clear braces and Invisalign, which are options for all patients.