Dr. Neely Orthodontics - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age to begin braces?

Because certain problems respond better if treatment is begun earlier in the growth process when primary teeth are still present, every child should be screened at age 7 by an orthodontist who may recommend early treatment. Interceptive treatment might begin at age 8 and last six to twelve months. Conventional treatment is best begun at age 10 in girls and age 11 in boys. By then most of the permanent teeth have erupted and treatment can be finished before beginning high school. Individuals with severe skeletal problems might enter an additional surgical-orthodontic phase of treatment at age 16 in girls and age 18 in boys, after all growth is complete. Adults can be treated at any age if their teeth, gums, and supporting bone are healthy.

Clear/Silver Braces

How much do braces cost?

It depends. Every patient is different and every treatment plan is made individually. Our fees are based on difficulty, length of time, and type of appliance. After examination and diagnosis, the cost of the proposed treatment options will be fully discussed. We offer flexible payment options. If you have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits we will pre-determine your benefit and accept assignment on most insurance. We also provide OFP (Orthodontic Fee Plan®), and Care Credit® for extended payment.

Orthodontic Treatment is an excellent investment in the longevity and function of your dentition, above and beyond the pleasure and confidence a winning smile gives you.

Does it hurt?

We understand that everyone experiences discomfort differently. Our patients generally report very little discomfort. The teeth may feel “tight” or a little sore for a few days following an adjustment. This is normal and temporary. We have found that an over the counter pain medication that you are already accustomed to taking, such as ibuprofen (Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), is very effective at reducing the initial discomfort, especially when taken an hour before your appointment. Most of our staff had braces as adults, so they are very sympathetic.

How long will I have to wear braces?

This depends on the severity of your problem and the scope of the treatment. Conventional treatment with full braces usually takes 18 to 30 months. Early treatment takes 6 to 12 months. The limiting factor in all treatments is biological – how fast the bone around the teeth be remodeled on the cellular level.

Good health, good oral hygiene, good nutrition, and good compliance with the doctor’s instructions combine to bring an excellent, on-time result.

"Victory" Silver Braces

If I kiss someone with braces, will our braces get stuck?

Consider it a calculated risk. But with tongue studs, all bets are off.

How often do I have to come in, and how long are the appointments?

The initial examination and diagnosis takes about a half hour, including imaging. The complete diagnostic work-up which follows takes just over an hour. It takes about an hour and a half to put on a full set of braces and go over patient instructions. Adjustments occur at 6 to 10 week intervals and take 15 to 30 minutes. Retainer check-ups are every 6 months take about 5 minutes.

What precautions should I take while wearing braces?

We put no restrictions on sports or playing a musical instrument. For contact sports we will supply a mouthguard that fits over braces.
Be sure to see your family dentist and hygienist for a cleaning and fluoride treatment at least every 6 months.
Maintain excellent dental hygiene. Floss daily. Use an electric toothbrush, and use a fluoride mouthwash.
Avoid hard, crunchy foods which will damage the braces and prolong the treatment.
Avoid sweet and sticky high sugar foods which will increase the risk of cavities and white marks (decalcified areas) on the teeth.

Gold Braces

How long do I have to wear retainers after my braces are removed?

For as long as you want your teeth to remain straight. As a minimum, until you have stopped growing and the question of your wisdom teeth has been resolved. However, wear and tear and time and aging together with habits such as clenching and grinding, injuries, loss of tooth support from periodontal disease or the loss of a tooth can initiate undesired tooth movement at any age. Retention is most critical in the 2 years after brace removal. We usually retain our patients indefinitely with a combination of invisible splints of thin stainless steel or gold wire bonded behind the front teeth in combination with removable retainers made of thin clear acrylic (Essix), traditional acrylic and wire retainers, and hard acrylic bite splints for those who grind their teeth in their sleep or have temporomandibular (jaw joint) disorders.

How often do I have to come in and how long are the appointments?

The Initial examination and diagnosis takes about an hour, including digital imaging. The diagnostic records appointment which precedes treatment takes about an hour. An appointment to put on a full set of braces is about two hours, including patient instructions. Adjustments occur at 6 to 10 week intervals and take 20-40 minutes. Retainer check-ups are every six months and take 10 minutes.