FAQ

When should my child see an orthodontist?
Every person is a little different. However, it is recommended by the American Association of orthodontists that about age 7 is an appropriate time for a child’s first evaluation by an orthodontic specialist. If you or your general dentist suspects an orthodontic problem before age 7, an orthodontic specialist should be contacted for an earlier evaluation.

Isn’t seven years of age too early?
Not really. Early diagnosis and treatment by the orthodontist can help tooth eruption, guide facial growth, and therefore, prevent more serious problems from occurring. Also, by lessening the problems, later orthodontic treatment may be reduced, made easier, and in some cases more economical.

Does my child need to see an orthodontist?
The following are indications that an orthodontic problem may be present:

• Unusual facial profile
• Thumb and finger sucking
• Overlapping and crowded teeth
• Missing teeth
• Underbite
• Protrusion of upper front teeth
• Mouth breathing
• These are just a few of the early indications that orthodontic problems may exist.

How will my child benefit from straight teeth?
Properly positioned teeth are much easier to care for and clean. Correction of the bite not only helps with improved chewing and speech, but also plays an important role in reducing future wear of the teeth and stress on the supporting bone and jaw joints. Orthodontic care may also improve an individual’s self-image.

How does orthodontic care improve self-image?
Scientific research has repeatedly shown the mouth and face to be focal points of communication and social interaction. Appearance has been related to interpersonal popularity, social behaviors, self-expectation, personality style, and self-image. There can be little doubt that an attractive facial appearance and smile can improve the quality of life in many dimensions. All factors of facial and dental appearance are considered by the orthodontist in planning individual treatment strategies.

I see quite a few adults with braces. Is this a growing trend?
Over 25% of our patients are adults. Age is not a factor in orthodontic care. This trend is expected to continue as adults become increasingly aware of the benefits of modern orthodontic therapy.

Why do people choose to have braces during adulthood?
Many of our adult patients are being treated for orthodontic problems that were not corrected when they were children. These individuals realize that improving the health of their mouth and the attractiveness of their smile and facial appearance often results in changes for the better in their personal, social and professional lives.

Why see a specialist?
Many orthodontic problems are quite complex, involving the growth patterns of facial bones and soft tissue facial profiles as well as misaligned teeth. Treatment of such problems requires the care of an orthodontist with lengthy specialty training.

What will happen on my first visit to your office?
At your first appointment, a thorough and complete orthodontic examination will be performed. This will include an analysis of facial and skeletal type, assessment of facial growth, and an examination of the bite, alignment of the teeth, health of the soft tissue, function of the temporomandibular joints and adjacent supporting structures. If treatment is necessary, an appointment will be made for a complete set of orthodontic records. You will be given an estimate of the time required for treatment and fee.

What are orthodontic records?
Orthodontic records usually include x-rays, photographs of the teeth and face, and models of the teeth. These diagnostic records enable us to develop the appropriate treatment plan to correct your individual problem. After orthodontic records are complete, you will be scheduled for a consultation appointment.

What is a consultation?
After a thorough and complete individual diagnosis, a detailed course of treatment will be outlined for you. This careful analysis allows us to also provide you with an estimated treatment time and an accurate fee quote.

Is orthodontic care expensive?
Orthodontic care often eliminates the need for other dental and medical treatment, thus reducing future health care costs. Considering that the benefits of orthodontic care can last a lifetime, the cost is quite modest.

Do I have to pay for orthodontic care all at once?
We are sensitive to your financial circumstances and try to provide a flexible payment plan that is within the comfort level of your budget.

Do you accept my orthodontic insurance?
We will do all we can to help you receive the maximum benefit from your insurance plan. All reimbursements from your insurance will be made directly to you. Please remember that most plans pay only a portion of your fee. You are, of course, responsible for any amount not covered by your plan.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time can vary from 6 months to 36 months. The length of treatments will vary depending on treatment goals, degree of complexity, patient cooperation and a number of other factors.

Should I continue to see my general dentist while in braces?
Definitely! It is very important to continue your regular dental checkups to prevent or detect dental decay, and to monitor the health of the supporting structures. Periodic professional dental cleaning by your dentist or dental hygienist will maintain overall dental health and prevent dental disease.

When will my appointments be scheduled?
We share your concern about missing school or work and schedule appointments so that each patient receives a fair proportion of non-school time appointments. We try to minimize the number of appointments that are necessary during school and excuses are provided when needed.

What happens if I have a problem with my braces after hours or on a weekend?
Orthodontic emergencies do not often occur, but if you have a problem, we respond quickly. Emergency care is provided at all times. We are available when you need us. You may call our after hours number, 440-4858, to contact Dr. Jeff Symonds or a qualified staff technician.

What can we expect from your practice?
We focus on personal attention and meticulous, state-of-the-art care in orthodontics. Our mission is to provide the highest level of orthodontic therapy in Alaska. We intend to treat you so well personally and technically that you will feel comfortable in recommending us to your friends and family.

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