Q: Why see an Orthodontic specialist?
A: After graduating from Dental School, orthodontic specialists take two or three years of additional training in orthodontics. By completing this education program, they have learned the special skills required to manage tooth movement and facial development. Their practice is limited to the study, prevention and correction of facial and dental problems. To announce themselves as a "Specialist in Orthodontics" they must comply with strict criteria established by the American Dental Association.

Q: Who is a Board Certified Orthodontist?
A: Certification by the American Board of Orthodontics is the highest academic achievement that can be awarded to an orthodontist. After completing his residency in orthodontics and after several years of clinical practice, the orthodontist submits to testing by the A.B.O. The test covers the scientific and clinical practice of orthodontics. Less than 30% of orthodontists in the world have received this accolade. (Dr. King and Dr. Mayerson are both board Certified Orthodontists.)

Q: When should an Orthodontist be seen?
A: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child should be seen at approximately age seven. However, a good "rule of thumb" is that a child should be seen as soon as an orthodontic problem is noticed. (Examples might be crossbites, a prolonged finger habit or extreme crowding.) Your dentist or family physician may bring it to your attention. However, if you notice a problem, feel free to call our office for a complimentary examination. Adults (over 18 years of age) can be examined at anytime. For all practical purposes there is no upper age limit for treatment.

Q: Isn't seven years of age too early?
A: Early diagnosis and treatment by an orthodontist, who understands growth and development, can help guide tooth eruption and facial growth. Early treatment can often help prevent more serious dental and facial problems. In addition, early treatment can reduce and lessen future orthodontic correction.

Q: Am I too old to have braces?
A: Age is not a factor for those who can benefit from orthodontic treatment. You are never too old. Many people, in their mature or senior years, have orthodontics as part of a comprehensive strategy to improve esthetics and/or function. Nationally, about 20% of patients receiving orthodontic treatment are adults.

Q: What are the benefits of straight teeth?
A: Everyone wants a beautiful smile - and everyone should have a healthy one. The orthodontist's goal is to achieve both for the patients. Properly positioned teeth are much easier to care for and clean. Correction of the bite not only helps with improved chewing and speech, it also plays a significant role in reducing future wear of the teeth and stress on the supporting bone and jaw joints. Orthodontic care can also improve an individual's self-image -- adult or child.

Q: How does orthodontic care improve self-image?
A: Scientific research has repeatedly shown the mouth and face to be the focal points of communication and interaction. Appearance has been related to interpersonal popularity, social behaviors, self-expectations, personality style and self-esteem. There can be little doubt that an attractive facial appearance and smile can improve the quality of life in many dimensions. A trained orthodontist will consider all the factors of facial and dental esthetics in planning individual treatment strategies.

Q: Are the number of people requesting orthodontic treatment increasing?
A: Yes. The primary reasons are (1) an increase in the public's knowledge of the benefits of orthodontics and (2) accelerated technical advances.

Q: What are some of these technical advances?
A: The use of man made sapphire and porcelain have produced small clear braces that are barely noticeable. Wires made with new space age technology can speed up treatment, are much more comfortable and reduce the frequency of necessary visits. In addition to these wires, new advancements in metal brace design can further increase comfort and reduce total treatment time and frequency of visits. For adults and very mature teenagers with minor problems, clear braces have been developed that are practically invisible. Also, in selected cases, a combination of orthodontics and advanced surgical techniques can achieve exciting improvement to facial harmony after growth has been completed.

Q: How long does orthodontic treatment take?
A: The length of treatment will depend on the treatment goals, degree of complexity, patient cooperation and remaining facial growth. Most treatment times average 12 to 36 months for active treatment followed by a period of retention. Some orthodontic problems are best treated in two phases of treatment.

Q: How important is cooperation?
A: Successful orthodontic treatment requires a cooperative effort between the orthodontist and the patient (and the parents when the patient is a child or adolescent). The orthodontists provides the expertise, the treatment plan and the appliances to correct the teeth. The patient must follow the instructions carefully so that the teeth move in the appropriate manner according to a prescribed schedule. If the instructions are followed and the appointments kept, treatment usually finishes on time with great results. Successful orthodontic treatment is a partnership of effort between the orthodontist, family dentist and the patient.

Q: What can be expected from your office?
A: You can expect an outstanding blend of art, science, the use of the latest technical advances and experience in dealing with clinical problems. We feel that the service aspect of our office is second to none. For many years we have indoctrinated our staff with a self-developed program called "Patient Appreciation." Our ideas have been copied thoughout the world. We intend to treat you so well professionally and personally that you will feel comfortable in recommending us to your family and friends.

Q: What is an orthodontic evaluation and consultation?
A: An orthodontic evaluation usually includes head x-rays, photos of the head, face and teeth and models of the teeth. The consultation allows us to communicate to you our treatment plan. A comprehensive discussion of the course of treatment, anticipated length of treatment, cost and financial arrangements will all be explained. All questions will be answered. If treatment is necessary the evaluation and consultation will take place at the first appointment.

Q: Is orthodontic treatment expensive?
A: It has been said that the two biggest bargains anywhere are the daily newspaper and a correctly treated orthodontic case. Orthodontic care can often eliminate the need for other dental and medical treatment, thereby reducing future health care costs. Considering that the benefits of proper orthodontic treatment, both dental and psychological, can last a lifetime, the cost is quite modest. The health, comfort and function of an attractive smile and proper bite can be priceless.

Q: Is payment for orthodontic care expected all at once?
A: As a service to our patients, we provide many flexible payment plans for your orthodontic care. Our goal is to try to devise a method of payment that will be compatible with each individual family's situation.

Q: Do you accept my orthodontic insurance?
A: Yes. We accept payment from a wide range of insurance plans. We are eager to help you receive the maximum benefits allowable by your plan.

Q: Should I continue to see my family dentist while in braces?
A: Absolutely! It is very important to continue your regular dental checkups. This will prevent and/or minimize dental decay and monitor the health of the supporting tissues. Periodic cleanings by your dentists or dental hygienist will help maintain overall dental health and prevent unwanted problems.

Q: When will my appointment be scheduled?
A: We schedule appointments so that each patient receives a fair portion of convenient times. Our goal is to take the best care possible of each patient at every visit. Appropriate time is needed for excellent care.

Q: What happens if I have problems with my braces after hours or on weekends?
A: Orthodontic emergencies do not occur often. If they do, we respond quickly. We can be reached by pager, if necessary, at any time. We are always available if you need us.