What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in aligning teeth and jaws for both children and adults. Orthodontists have completed dental school, just as your family dentist but have also had additional training (called a residency) for 2-3 years. During their residency, the orthodontist learns not only about placing braces on teeth but also studies the growth and development of the jaws. From their background, orthodontists will determine developing bite problems at very early ages and treat them accordingly.  

When should the Orthodontist first see our child?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that an Orthodontist first evaluate children at age 5-7. Dr. Marino feels that most children should be evaluated not later than 5 years.
How much does Orthodontics cost?

Orthodontic fees will vary depending on the complexity of the bite problem. Bites with more severe problems usually require additional treatment time (and additional fees) than a less complicated bite. Some bites require expansion appliances while others do not. Because of so many differences, each case is evaluated independently. To evaluate your or your child’s bite, we invite you to visit our office for an evaluation.

Will my insurance cover the cost of braces?

Most insurance companies pay only a portion of the orthodontic fee but most insurance companies will pay for the diagnostic records.

How long do I have to wear braces/appliances?

Treatment time can range from 3 to 30 months in length, depending upon the severity of the problem. However, most patients undergoing treatment are completed in approximately 12 to 18 months.

Can I just wear a retainer to fix my bite?

Retainers are usually used at the end of treatment to hold the teeth in their new position.

Do braces hurt?

Most patients find that when they first get their braces, their teeth will be sore for the first two days. Some patients may take Tylenol or Advil after some of their appointments; however, most patients are surprised that the braces do not hurt as much as they expected.

Do many adults get braces?

Many patients in our practice are adults and the percentage appears to be growing every year. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. Adults may benefit not only for cosmetic reasons but to facilitate better hygiene and gum health, as well as to reduce strain on teeth and jaw joints. Clear braces have made wearing of appliances far more acceptable from a cosmetic viewpoint for adults. As well, the Invisalign system of clear tooth aligners may be a treatment option.
What is Invisalign?

Refer Invisalign information on previous web page.

Why would you sometimes recommend the extraction of baby teeth?

For some patients there isn’t enough room for the permanent teeth to erupt. If something isn’t done, these teeth will either crowd further or will become lodged and not erupt at all. One of the ways to create space is to remove some primary teeth. The permanent teeth can then come in and you will see a natural improvement in the alignment of the teeth. This allows us to improve the appearance and health of the permanent teeth as they grow. When all permanent teeth are in, further orthodontic treatment usually is needed to ensure they are correctly aligned.

What is an impacted tooth?

An impacted tooth is one that is blocked out and can’t grow in properly. Two things need to occur to bring it into the correct position. First, the orthodontist needs to create a space for your impacted tooth in the dental arch. Second, we need to gently guide the tooth into the arch by attaching a bracket and using elastics that stretch between the bracket and the archwire. An oral surgeon will remove some of the tissue around the tooth so that we can attach this bracket. This technique requires patience as the final alignment of the teeth can’t take place until the impacted tooth is taken care of. The wait is worthwhile, however, as the result will be a healthy, balanced smile.

Orthodontics… You’re going to love your smile!