When should a child first see an orthodontist?

Whenever a problem is detected by the parent, dentist, or hygienist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child receive an orthodontic screening no later than age 7. Some problems, like the effects of thumbsucking or the existence of a crossbite, should be evaluated even earlier before the permanent teeth start erupting. Other problems, however, are best treated later, but an examination at age 7 allows the orthodontist to plan for the optimum timing of future treatment while monitoring the child’s dental development and facial growth.

Many parents and, unfortunately, some dentists, mistakenly think a child must have all of his/her permanent teeth in before seeking orthodontic treatment. For most children the optimum time to initiate treatment is just before the last baby teeth are lost. Initiation of treatment before all of the permanent teeth erupt gives the orthodontist the best opportunity to guide the development of the permanent teeth and influence facial growth.

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Is it ever too late to get braces?

Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. We regularly treat patients in their 50s, 60s, and occasionally, in their 70s. There are more restrictions on what can be accomplished since growth is no longer a factor, but many adults can enjoy the benefits of a healthy, pleasing smile for the rest of their lives with orthodontic treatment.

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Do I have to be referred into your office?

It is not necessary to be referred in order to receive an evaluation and treatment from our office. Many of our patients come on the recommendation of our former and present patients.

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How long are braces worn?

Treatment times are dependent on the severity of the problem, the age of the patient, and, most importantly, the cooperation of the patient. Due to technological advances, cases that used to take 2 to 3 years are now often treated in 18 to 20 months.

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What about fees?

Our fees are based on the total treatment to be rendered and the severity of the problem to be corrected. The only way to determine this is by direct examination of the patient by the orthodontist. At the consultation appointment Dr. Jay or Dr. Walker, Sr., will exam the patient and then discuss the problems presented, the treatment recommended, and the total fee for that treatment. The fee cannot be given over the phone without an examination because there is such a wide diversity of problems and treatment modalities.

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What options are there in paying the fee?

We are pleased to offer the services of Capital One Healthcare Finance, a company endorsed by the American Association of Orthodontists that specializes in the financing of orthodontic treatment for families. The advantages of COHF include no requirement of a down payment, financing for up to 60 months to make for lower monthly payments, and reasonable interest rates. For some families paying through COHF can have tax advantages. And COHF is very advantageous for families who have more than one family member needing orthodontic treatment. Visit their website http://www.capitalonehealthcarefinance.com/orthodontics/, or call their toll free number, 1-877-559-5050.

Secondly, for those who would like to pay the fee in full at the beginning of treatment we usually offer a courtesy reduction to reflect the savings in bookkeeping.

Thirdly, we will finance the treatment in office without interest. This usually requires a down payment of approximately one third of the total treatment fee, and the balance paid out over 18 monthly payments.

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