Orthodontic FAQs
Your Orthodontic FAQs, Answered
Starting orthodontic treatment is a big decision, and it is completely natural to have questions along the way. At Casey Orthodontics in Warminster, PA, we believe that informed patients are confident patients. That is why we have put together this FAQ resource to walk you through everything from your first visit to life with braces and beyond.
Whether you are a parent exploring treatment options for your child, an adult considering braces for the first time, or a returning patient with a quick question, you will find clear, straightforward answers here. Our orthodontists and team are always happy to go deeper on any topic, so never hesitate to reach out directly. In the meantime, browse the frequently asked questions below to get a better sense of what to expect from your orthodontic journey with us.
1. Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the orthodontist?
No, it is not. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, while others take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.
2. At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, most children have erupted several permanent teeth, allowing one of our orthodontists to effectively evaluate your condition.
3. Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
4. How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?
If you or your child can potentially benefit from orthodontic treatment, simply call our office, send us an e-mail, or fill out our appointment request form online. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information.
5. What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
Upon arrival, each patient and parent will be seen by the staff and the doctor, who will orient you to our office and prepare for the initial exam. We will take the necessary photographs and X-rays to make a proper diagnosis. The doctor will then complete a brief but thorough exam. To read more about your first visit, see our first visit page.
6. What will I learn from the initial examination?
There are five essential questions that we will cover during the initial examination:
- Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
- What can the orthodontist do to correct the problem?
- Will any teeth need to be removed?
- How long will the treatment take to complete?
- How much will the treatment cost?
7. Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goals of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.
8. How long will it take to complete treatment?
Treatment time obviously depends on each patient's specific orthodontic problem. In general, treatment times range from 12 to 30 months. The "average" time frame a person is in braces is approximately 22 months.
9. How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?
It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined you. We will cover the exact cost and financial options during the initial examination. We have many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefits and file your claims.
10. How often will I have appointments?
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every five to 10 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
11. Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all student appointments during after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled five to 10 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments. We will, however, make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.
12. Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in with their patient manager before dropping off their child.
13. Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not "hurt." After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all! We often remind our patients, "It does not have to hurt to work!"
14. Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
Yes. There is no reason to miss school because of an orthodontic appointment.
15. Do you give shots?
No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.
16. Do you use recycled braces?
Absolutely not! It is our belief that each patient should be provided with their own braces to achieve the best possible orthodontic result.
17. Can I still play sports?
Yes. We recommend a mouth guard for all sports.
18. Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.
19. Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables, and all sticky foods (i.e., caramel and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.
20. How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?
Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day - after each meal and before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss their teeth with braces and may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary.
21. What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone. If you require an emergency appointment, we will set aside time for you.
22. Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment, we will monitor their growth and development until the time is right to begin treatment.
23. What is Phase One (early) treatment?
Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated in children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 16-21 months. The primary objective of Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from worsening and to improve self-esteem and self-image.
24. Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called the "resting period," during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.
25. Will my child need an expander?
At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether the patient needs an expander.
26. Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25% of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness, and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is "too old" to wear braces!
27. Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment can help align the remaining teeth.
28. Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?
Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by the orthodontist. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed. Orthodontists have extensive, specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatment.
Ready to Get Started? Schedule Your Visit Today
We hope this FAQ page has given you the clarity and confidence to take your next step with an orthodontist. At Casey Orthodontics, we have been serving families across Warminster, Horsham, Hatboro, and the surrounding communities since 1992, and we are proud to treat generations of patients who trust us with their smiles.
If you still have questions that were not covered here, our friendly team is just a phone call away. We would love to meet you, walk you through your options, and help you find the treatment plan that fits your life. Call our orthodontist office at your convenience or use our online appointment request form to choose a time that works for your schedule. We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible in-house financing to make your care as accessible as possible. Your best smile is closer than you think, and Casey Orthodontics is here to help you get there.