We get all kinds of questions at Saddle Creek Orthodontics, especially from first-time patients or parents of first-time patients. And we love it! There is no such thing as an over-asked or bad question here. Still, if you want to save time at your initial appointment by skipping over some of the “standard” questions, you’ve come to the right place! Slim your list of questions by checking out this Q&A for FAQs about orthodontic treatment.
Are You Too Old For Braces?
A common question we get asked from older potential patients and parents of younger patients is, “Am I too old to begin treatment?” We love getting this question! It’s an opportunity to do one of our favorite things — dispel a commonly believed misconception about orthodontics!
The truth is, no one with healthy teeth and gums is too old for braces. And if your teeth and gums aren’t in as good of shape as we need them to be, we can collaborate with your dentist to see what can be done to help you begin orthodontic treatment.
We encourage everyone desiring a straighter, healthier smile to seek orthodontic treatment, regardless of age. You deserve a smile you love!
Can You Pay For Treatment With Dental Insurance?
If your dental insurance offers orthodontic coverage, then yes, you can use it to pay some or all of your orthodontic costs. However, many insurance plans have limitations or restrictions, such as:
- Coverage for up to a certain age
- Maximum dollar amount they’ll spend
- Metal braces are the only option
- Clear aligners are not covered
- Treatment must be for health reasons
It’s important to know your plan’s parameters so you can get everything you’re entitled to and not get an unexpected bill. Fortunately, our team at Saddle Creek Orthodontics has plenty of experience dealing with the intentionally stressful insurance industry. We can help you determine your plan’s coverage and maximize your benefits to minimize out-of-pocket costs. To ensure any remaining balance stays within your budget, we also offer:
- 0% In-House Financing
- Low Down Payments
- Extended Monthly Payment Plans
- Paid-In-Full Discount
- Automatic Payments
Bonus Tip: You can also use credit cards, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), or a Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for orthodontic treatment.
When Should You See An Orthodontist For The First Time?
You do not need to wait for a referral from a dentist or for your problems to interfere with your quality of life. You can schedule your first appointment at Saddle Creek Orthodontics whenever you’re ready! We’re happy to provide a smile assessment and lay out your treatment options. Plus, you are not required to start treatment just because you had a consultation, and there are no hidden fees, so there’s no risk!
Children, on the other hand, should see an orthodontist by around age seven. This age is perfect for orthodontists like Dr. Kyle and Dr. John to treat any early malocclusion symptoms and plan future treatments if necessary.
Does Treatment Hurt?
Nope! Braces and Invisalign treatment can be uncomfortable at times, especially at the beginning, after adjustments, or when you wear a new aligner. Moving your teeth around is no small feat! However, it should never be painful. If your braces or aligners are hurting you, we recommend contacting us ASAP so we can resolve the issue.
Note: Any of the expected and normal tenderness you might experience throughout your orthodontic journey can usually be alleviated by adjusting your diet or using braces, wax, chewies, Orajel, or ice.
What is The Difference Between Metal, Clear, & Removable Braces?
Most orthodontic offices offer multiple types of treatment, and Saddle Creek Orthodontics is no different. We proudly offer metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign clear aligners. Let’s check them out:
- Metal Braces: This option is the most commonly used due to its versatility and durability. They consist of metal brackets, metal wires, and colorful bands called ligatures, which give braces color and hold the wire in place.
- Self-Ligating Metal Braces: These are exactly like metal braces, except they lack the signature braces colors because they don’t need ligatures to hold the wire in place. This feature makes them a little more subtle than traditional metal braces.
- Clear Braces: Like metal braces, clear braces use brackets, wires, and ligatures. The difference is that clear braces use brackets made of tooth-colored ceramic and have matching ligatures for a far less noticeable aesthetic. These stain-resistant ceramic braces can also be paired with colorful ligatures for a fashionable pop of color.
- Invisalign: Invisalign is one of the leading brands of clear aligners. Sometimes referred to as removable braces, clear aligners are the only removable treatment option and offer patients the freedom and flexibility that fixed braces do not. These custom-made, nearly invisible trays allow patients to brush, floss, and eat as if they weren’t in treatment.
Which treatment is right for you depends heavily on the severity of your misalignment and your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. At your free consultation, Dr. Kyle or Dr. John will discuss your options and help you narrow them down to the one that will give you the best results and experience.
Why Do I Need A Retainer?
What inspires many to reach out to us and also keeps a lot of our patients motivated throughout their orthodontic journey is envisioning their perfect smile at the end of treatment, so it’s easy to see why one of our most frequently asked questions is why retainers are necessary.
Retainers are an essential part of the orthodontic process. After we move your teeth, they need time to adjust to their new homes. Teeth are very nostalgic for the past and, if given the opportunity, will try to return to where they once were. Wearing your retainers as instructed holds your teeth in place while the mouth solidifies, protecting that perfect smile you’ve worked so hard for when it’s most vulnerable.
Saddle Creek Orthodontics Has All The Answers You Need!
At Saddle Creek Orthodontics, we prioritize patient education because we believe everyone deserves to make informed decisions about their health. If you have more questions that were not answered here, check out our Orthodontic FAQs page or contact us in Germantown or Collierville. Our team is always happy to help!
For more personalized answers, please schedule a free consultation.