Orthodontics FAQs in Oak Ridge NC

Orthodontics is one of the nine recognized dental specialties. It focuses on diagnosing, preventing and treating irregularities in the teeth and jaws, including misalignments. Orthodontists receive two to three years of additional training beyond dental school to be able to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.

There are many types of orthodontic treatment available. Common treatments include:

• Metal braces
• Ceramic (tooth-colored) braces
• Clear aligners such as Invisalign®

Invisalign has become an increasingly-popular treatment option among teens and adults due to its convenience and discreet appearance. While not all orthodontic problems can be effectively treated with Invisalign, many patients are great candidates. We will discuss all of your options in-depth during your consultation.

Every case is completely unique to the patient, so treatment length will depend on many factors including the amount and type of work needing to be done and the age of the patient. Generally speaking, though, treatment lasts from 12 to 30 months.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an initial orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, preventive measures can be taken that help reduce the need of further treatment later.

No! While most ortho patients are children or teenagers, more adults than ever are taking advantage of orthodontic treatment. As long as your teeth, gums and bones are healthy, you are a candidate for ortho.

As every case is totally unique, the ultimate cost of your treatment will depend on the nature of your treatment. However, we will talk about potential costs in depth during your initial consultation so there are no surprises down the road.

Many insurance providers now offer coverage for orthodontic treatment. Our team will help you understand and take advantage of any potential insurance benefits you have.