Here you will be able to find answers to some of the most often asked questions.

What is Orthodontics?
What is an orthodontist?
Who should wear braces?
How long will my orthodontic treatment last?
What kind of braces are available?
How much do braces cost?
Do braces hurt?
Will braces affect playing sports?
Why are retainers so important?
Where can I learn more?

Q: What is an orthodontist?
A: An orthodontist is a dentist who has attended a specialty education program for a continual training period of 2-3 years. All members of the American Association of Orthodontists have received the appropriate training.

Q: Who should wear braces?
A: Braces are worn by both children and adults, not only to improve the attractiveness of your smile but also because braces correct improper alignment of teeth that can lead to gum disease and early tooth loss. Properly aligned teeth also make it easier to chew all types of food and eliminate the headaches and pain caused by uneven chewing.

Q: How long will my orthodontic treatment last?
A: We expect your treatment to last from 18 to 30 months, though this will vary depending on your individual case. Your cooperation in keeping scheduled orthodontic appointments, maintaining proper hygiene, and taking care of your braces may allow us to finish your orthodontic treatment early.

Q: What kind of braces are available?
A: In the past, there was only one type of braces available, and it wasn’t designed for looks. Modern technology gives you choices for braces, including traditional stainless steel braces, clear ceramic braces, and the latest in orthodontic technology, Invisalign. For more information on Invisalign, please check their website, at http://www.invisalign.com/.

Q: How much do braces cost?
A: Orthodontic fees depend on the complexity of the case, the age of the patient, the type of appliances used, and the estimated length of treatment. Since every case is different, a visit to our office for a complimentary examination will allow us to give you an idea of the fee.

Q: Do braces hurt?
A: There have been some fantastic advances in the way we do things now in orthodontics to make treatment more comfortable for our patients. These include smaller, smoother brackets, and gentler wires which provide a continuous small force over a long period of time rather than a strong force for only a short period. Typically there is some discomfort two to three days after each adjustment that over-the-counter pain relievers can take care of.

Q: Will braces affect playing sports?
A: You should be able to play just about any sport or activity. Although we do highly recommend wearing a mouthguard in contact sports or any sport where there is a chance you can get hit in the face.

Q: Why are retainers so important?
A: Retainers help to retain your teeth in the proper position at the completion of treatment. If they are not worn as instructed, your teeth will move or tend to relapse. Retainers are EXTREMELY important right after the braces are removed while the teeth stabilize.

Q: Where can I learn more?
A: You can contact us, we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
More on this website about Orthodontics San Antonio

The first appointment is the “initial examination”. This appointment allows the doctor and the staff the opportunity to meet you or your child and to obtain basic information regarding any current or potential orthodontic problems. A medical and dental history are obtained as well as a thorough clinical evaluation and documentation of any orthodontic problems. A panoramic x-ray (screening x-ray) may be taken, if you do not have or bring one, to evaluate the development of the teeth, the presence or absence of any teeth, and the integrity of the supporting dental structures. After examination, general questions regarding the nature of the orthodontic problems (if any), type of treatment required, estimated time of treatment, and when treatment should be initiated, will be answered. If treatment is recommended after the initial examination, diagnostic records will be required so that the doctor can further evaluate the problems and propose a recommended plan of treatment. If treatment is not indicated at the time of the initial examination, he will suggest a recall regimen to monitor the child’s growth and dental development.

Once the initial examination has been completed, the staff can address any financial concerns and discuss the payment options available through our office. We will be glad to explore any orthodontic insurance benefits you or your child may have.

Note: If orthodontic treatment is indicated, it is very important that you or your child has seen your family dentist for a checkup within the past six months. If any cavities are to be filled, these should be completed prior to initiation of the orthodontic treatment.

Appointment Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes.

What To Bring (If you have them)

A recent (within the last 6 months) panorex or full-mouth series of x-rays taken by your dentist.
Any orthodontic diagnostic records that may have previously been taken.
Any orthodontic insurance information (cards, booklets, etc.) so that we can determine your benefits.
The completed patient information and medical history form was mailed to you after you scheduled the initial evaluation appointment.
Any referral information or letters that may have been given to you by your dentist or physician.

What To Expect (TMJ or TMD Exam)

The initial examination appointment is to determine the basic nature of your “TMD” problems and discuss the possible treatment modalities available to address these problems. A thorough evaluation of your medical and dental history as well as the effectiveness of any previous “TMD” treatment that has been rendered, will be investigated. A comprehensive clinical evaluation will be performed to assess and document areas that can contribute to jaw-related pain and dysfunction. A panorex (screening x-ray) will be taken, if you do not have a recent one, to evaluate any abnormalities in the jaw joints, teeth, and the supporting structures of the teeth. After the initial evaluation, further diagnostic information may be necessary to establish a proper diagnosis and plan of treatment.

Once the examination is complete, a financial estimate of any necessary treatment will be discussed by a staff member before treatment is initiated. If you have dental or medical insurance, we will be happy to determine if you have any benefits covering “TMD” treatment.

Appointment Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

What To Bring (If you have them)

A recent (within the last 6 months) panorex or full-mouth series of x-rays taken by your dentist.
Any records that may have previously been taken to evaluate your “TMD” problems.
Any dental or medical insurance information (cards, booklets, etc.) so that we can determine your benefits.
The completed patient information and medical history form was mailed to you after you scheduled the initial evaluation appointment.
Any referral information or letters that may have been given to you by your dentist or physician. More on this website

Crooked teeth and teeth grinding are very common and suffered by almost 60 percent population of the world. Also, about 80 percent people of the total population of the world have misaligned bite. There are several reasons that can cause this. These conditions can give you jaw pain or ear clicking so these should not be taken lightly. Usually, dentists and orthodontists advise their patients to wear braces for crooked teeth. Braces are actually a type of strong holder that holds teeth together tightly at their proper place. Braces are usually made of wire, however, you can also purchase transparent braces which are made of clear material. Cost of Braces depends upon many factors which are explained below:

It is a common problem that people who face teeth misalignment, don’t go for brace treatment because of its high cost. It is a common perception that braces can cost a hefty amount, however, it is not always true. You can purchase braces at a very economical price if you know the factors that decide the cost of braces. There are different factors that you need to consider while analyzing cost of braces. These factors may include structure, material, brand, manufacturer, and size, For example, you will find ceramic braces at a high cost as compared to metal braces, however, ceramic braces are cheaper.

The cost of braces also depends on their visibility. For example, lingual braces are one of the most expensive braces available in the market. These braces are totally invisible because they are cemented on the inner surface of teeth.

The cost of braces is a serious problem for those people who can’t afford them. There are many people who can’t pay $3000 or more at once. Such people can purchase their braces easily through credit plans. There are many dental clinics that are offering different credit plans to their patients. Inquire about a payment plan. More Information on this website