Life with Braces
What to Expect for new Orthodontics Patients
Where Your Smile Dreams and Our Vision Aligns
Unlike general dentists, orthodontists are specially trained to diagnose and treat problems with your teeth and jaws such as bad bites or misaligned teeth. Often, these concerns can be easily corrected with the use of braces or other orthodontic appliances. When you or your kids need to see an orthodontist, you might be wondering what to expect at the first visit. Whether you have a visit coming up or need to make an appointment, the team at Red Rock Orthodontics is here to help you every step of the way!
Scheduling an Orthodontic Appointment
Ready to schedule an orthodontic consultation? Take a few moments to review our new patient forms then, read on to get answers to your orthodontic questions including how much do braces cost, and more!
Your Initial Consultation
During your first visit to our office, we will complete an oral exam. This allows our orthodontist, Dr. Lee, to find anything not listed in your records. For example, you may have a cavity that needs filling and must be done before having braces put in place. After reviewing your records and completing the examination, Dr. Lee will then put together an initial treatment plan that is just as unique as you are. This plan will detail what method will be used for the best results and how long it will take to achieve them. Your initial consultation is where your smile journey begins, and we promise to provide an orthodontic experience that is second to none. We love what we do, and we feel like artists in our craft. We will always stand behind our work.
Phase 1 Orthodontics
Red Rock Orthodontics and the American Association of Orthodontists recommend that your child’s first check-up with an orthodontist be performed no later than age 7. Why age 7? By this age, your child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to evaluate the developing teeth and the jaws, which in turn can provide a wealth of information.
If Dr. Lee notices a moderate or severe orthodontic problem that should not wait until later, he may recommend your child start “Phase 1” Treatment. Phase 1 braces is a problem-focused treatment where we generally address one major problem in a young child’s mouth. The goal with this approach is to develop the child’s jaws to make room for the future eruption of permanent teeth and to improve the relationship of the upper and lower jaws. This type of treatment generally lasts 12 months. However, it can be as short as 6 months or as long as 18 months.
Phase 2 Orthodontics
After phase 1 orthodontics, young patients generally begin phase 2 of orthodontic treatment during early adolescent or adolescent years. The goal of Phase II Treatment is to position all the permanent teeth to maximize their appearance and function. This is best accomplished with full braces or clear aligners. On average, Phase 2 orthodontic treatment usually lasts between 12-18 months long.
If Dr. Lee notices a moderate or severe orthodontic problem that should not wait until later, he may recommend your child start “Phase 1” Treatment. Phase 1 braces is a problem-focused treatment where we generally address one major problem in a young child’s mouth. The goal with this approach is to develop the child’s jaws to make room for the future eruption of permanent teeth and to improve the relationship of the upper and lower jaws. This type of treatment generally lasts 12 months. However, it can be as short as 6 months or as long as 18 months.
Orthodontics for Adults
Today, one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. With developments in orthodontics in recent years, more and more adults are seeking treatment for oral difficulties they’ve been experiencing since childhood. Orthodontic treatment creates a better bite, making teeth fit better and decreasing the risk of future dental problems (like tooth decay and gum disease) regardless of age.
Paying for Orthodontic Treatment
Once we have agreed upon a treatment plan, the next step is discussing insurance and payment options. Orthodontist costs will vary from patient to patient and are based on a number of factors. Some things that influence the cost of your treatment include your age, the severity of your needs, and your insurance coverage. But don’t worry, we make paying for braces easy! Our staff will discuss the cost of your treatment and each available payment plan option with you, so you can make the best choice for yourself and your smile. We will work with you so you will know what to expect before beginning treatment.