What is a good age to get braces?

Some children get braces as early as six years old, while other people wait to undergo orthodontic treatment until they’re in their 50s—it all depends on any potential financial barriers you face and the severity of your orthodontic problems. Dr. Tamara Jones offers specialized pediatric orthodontics for young patients who have noticeable misalignment as a child, metal braces for teens, and Invisalign, which is a great option for both teens and adults. No matter what age you are, it’s never too early or late to look into ways that you can improve the health and appearance of your smile. 

Does it hurt to get metal braces?

As with any orthodontic treatment, you’ll have to undergo an adjustment period as you get used to the way that your appliance feels in your mouth. Some patients report tenderness and a little discomfort during the first week, but that can easily be remedied by using orthodontic wax, an ice pack, eating soft foods, and over-the-counter pain medication. If you continue experiencing tenderness past the first week of getting braces and none of those are helping you feel more comfortable, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.

Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?

Not everybody is a great candidate for Invisalign. It’s an excellent orthodontic treatment for teens and adults who have minor to moderate misalignment or bite problems, but in more complex cases, metal braces will likely be the faster and more effective treatment option.

What’s the difference between an orthodontist and a family dentist?

Dr. Jones completed an additional 27 months of training after earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery to complete her Masters and Certificate in Orthodontics. This additional training gave her hands-on experience and knowledge to tackle complex orthodontic issues and shadow highly experienced specialists to be able to effectively provide treatments like metal braces and Phase I Pediatric Orthodontics. Family dentists aren’t required to complete any additional training after receiving their degree, so they don’t necessarily have any specialized training in providing certain treatments.

Are braces covered by dental insurance?

Not all plans have an orthodontic treatment allowance, but many do. Our team at Willow Bend Orthodontics is happy to help you find out whether you or your child’s treatment will be covered. We’re proudly in-network with many major PPO dental insurance plans as well, saving patients 20% on average.