What age is best for the first orthodontic examination?
Dr. Burckhard will see any patient anytime for an initial orthodontic examination. However, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends the initial orthodontic exam no later than the age of 7. See information under “first orthodontic visit” for more information.
Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see an orthodontist?
No. If you want to see Dr. Burckhard for an orthodontic exam, feel free to call our office to schedule an appointment.
How do I schedule a new patient orthodontic evaluation?
Simply call our office, and we would be happy to help find a time that works for you or your child to see Dr. Burckhard for a new patient evaluation.
What will happen at the new patient orthodontic evaluation?
At the first visit, Dr. Burckhard will perform a thorough examination of you or your child’s teeth and bite, and then he will sit down with you to review photos of the teeth and bite to explain how you or your child could benefit from orthodontic care. In addition to your questions, he will address the following questions with you at the initial visit:
Are you or your child a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
When is the best time for treatment? Is it time for treatment now or should you or your child wait for treatment for reasons such as growth or tooth eruption?
What types of braces and orthodontic appliances are best for you or your child’s needs?
How long will treatment be?
Do any permanent or baby teeth need to be extracted?
How much will it cost and what are the payment options?
Will teeth need to be extracted for my orthodontic treatment?
Extracting teeth is not always needed for orthodontic treatment. Sometimes teeth need to be extracted to help you achieve the best result. Dr. Burckhard will conduct a thorough examination and will then study your orthodontic records to determine if extractions are recommended.
How long will orthodontic treatment last?
There is not one answer to this question. The length of time of orthodontic treatment will depend on the severity of the case and on patient cooperation during treatment. Treatment time can average from 9-30 months, however, 18-24 months is typical for time in braces.
How much do braces cost?
Dr. Burckhard would have to conduct a new patient orthodontic evaluation to determine how much braces would cost for you or your child. Burckhard Orthodontics has different financing options available if needed, and we will also help you with your orthodontic insurance if you have insurance.
How often are orthodontic appointments?
Appointments are typically every 4-8 weeks. There are situations where this may vary, but we would discuss this with you if necessary.
Can all of my child’s orthodontic appointments be scheduled before or after school?
No, this is not possible. However, we will try to accommodate you as best as we can. We try to offer a range of before and after school appointments for convenience.
Can I drop my child off for an orthodontic appointment?
Yes, you can. We understand that life if busy, however, please do not do this for the initial appointments before the braces go on. In addition, we would ask that you come in when you pick your child up so that we can give you an update from that day’s appointment.
Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not hurt. You may have some discomfort after certain appointments or procedures. If you do, we recommend taking whatever you typically take for a headache such as Advil or Tylenol. Braces do not have to hurt to be effective.
Can my child go back to school the day my child gets braces?
Yes, you can absolutely go back to school the day you get braces.
Do you give shots during orthodontic treatment?
No, we do not give shots for braces.
Do you use recycled braces?
No, each patient at Burckhard Orthodontics gets their own set of braces.
Can I play sports with braces?
Yes, you can play sports with braces, but a protective mouthguard is recommended.
Is it necessary to see my regular dentist during my orthodontic treatment?
Yes, this is very important. Your dentist will determine how often you should be seen at his/her office during your orthodontic treatment.
Are there foods that I should avoid during my orthodontic treatment?
Yes, we recommend staying away from hard and sticky foods. These foods can break your orthodontic appliances and cause you to have to see our office for repair appointments. We also recommend avoiding sugary and acidic drinks such as sodas (both diet and regular), sports drinks, energy drinks, sugary coffees, juices, etc. Water is the best thing to drink with braces.
How often should I brush my teeth with braces?
Dr. Burckhard recommends brushing your teeth after meals and before bedtime. This means you should brush your teeth at least FOUR times a day. We will review how to keep your teeth clean during your orthodontic treatment.
What is an emergency appointment and how do you handle them?
If you have extreme pain or something breaks with your braces, feel free to call our office. We may be able to talk you through it over the phone, and if not, we will help schedule an appointment.
Can orthodontic treatment occur while my child still has some baby teeth present?
Yes, some situations can be treated while some baby teeth are still present. We will help you to determine if your child should be treated at that time or if it would be better to wait for treatment at later time. If waiting it best, Dr. Burckhard will monitor your child’s growth and development to help determine the ideal time for treatment.
What is phase I orthodontic treatment?
This is early interceptive treatment that is done on younger children, usually 7-10 years old. It is typically done to address a specific problem that should be corrected now. Phase I treatment typically lasts about 9-15 months. Sometimes phase I treatment is optional and parents choose to do it to help with early tooth alignment due to social issues at school. This early treatment can help to improve self confidence in young children.
Will my child need a full set of braces after phase I treatment?
Most kids that have phase I orthodontic treatment will also have a second phase with a full set of braces. The second phase of braces will help to address the complete set of adult teeth as well as how the jaws fit. Remember, phase I treatment is usually for a specific problem that is best corrected then. There is typically a break in between the two phases of treatment. During this break, Dr. Burckhard will monitor your child’s growth and development to determine when the second phase should begin.
Will my child need an expander?
Dr. Burckhard would need to complete an initial orthodontic evaluation to determine if an expander is recommended.
Can I have braces as an adult?
Absolutely! More and more adults are pursuing orthodontic treatment as they desire straighter teeth and improved oral health from teeth that are easier to clean and fit better.
Can I have braces if I have crowns?
Yes, Dr. Burckhard can still move your tooth if it has a crown.
Can I have braces if I am missing teeth?
Yes, people that are missing teeth often end up seeing an orthodontist. Dr. Burckhard will work with your dentist and sometimes other dental specialists to determine how to best treat the area where the tooth/teeth are missing.
Can I have braces if I’ve had root canal treatment?
Yes, you can still have braces even if you’ve had root canal treatment.
Can I have braces if I have a dental implant(s) and/or a dental bridge(s)?
Yes, you can still have braces. Dr. Burckhard will discuss how this dental work will incorporate into your final orthodontic treatment plan.
Why should I see an orthodontist for my orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontists have had specialized training in orthodontic treatment. Dr. Burckhard went to dental school and then a residency specifically for orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedics. Dr. Burckhard uses this training to help you to determine what orthodontic treatment will be best for you.