Orthodontic FAQs

Orthodontists, like Dr. Reed, have spent years studying and developing expertise in teeth and jaw alignment. They have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized orthodontic treatments. In addition, orthodontists correct bite problems all day, so you are certain they have seen and corrected several types of orthodontic problems.

Treatment times can take anywhere between 6 and 30 months and on average about 18-24 months. It varies depending on the individual patient because every tooth responds differently to treatment.

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 orthodontic appointment, we will set aside time for you and help you get back on track.

We do our best to see you the same day should you have an orthodontic emergency. Please contact us in the event of an orthodontic emergency.

If you experience poking wires or brackets, you may place orthodontic wax over them to prevent any soft tissue irritation. However, if it doesn’t help, give our office a call and we can help you address any discomfort you are experiencing.

Absolutely! A tooth with a crown will move similarly to your other teeth. If you have missing teeth, orthodontic treatment will help correct the alignment of your remaining teeth.

As with any orthodontic treatment, you may experience discomfort – especially during the first few days after placing your braces and after your monthly adjustments. Your teeth and gums may feel sore as they move to their new positions.

It may take some time to get used to your orthodontic appliances. However, it should not stop you from participating in school activities such as singing or playing an instrument. If you participate in contact sports, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard.

The cost of braces varies depending on the length of treatment and other factors. We will need to do a full examination to assess your teeth and bite, then, we will discuss the exact cost and financial options during your initial complimentary consultation.

In some cases, we do offer a discount for families receiving orthodontic treatment with us.

Please wear your retainer as instructed by Dr. Reed and our team – usually, you will wear your retainer full-time for 6 months unless otherwise instructed.

• Retainers are very fragile so treat them with special care.
• Contact us immediately if you break or lose your retainer.
• Do not try to adjust retainers yourself.
• Store your retainers in their case while eating. (Retainers are most often lost in restaurants or school lunchrooms.)
• Use a toothbrush and toothpaste to thoroughly clean your retainers at least once a day.
• Keep retainers away from hot surfaces or temperatures like hot water, dashboards, or direct sunlight.
• Do not wear a retainer while swimming or any other outdoor sports. (Football, basketball, cheerleading, etc.)
• Pets love to chew on retainers, so ALWAYS use your retainer case to store your retainer when it is not in your mouth.
• Be sure to bring your retainers with you to your appointments.