Frequently Asked Question About Orthodontics
Initial Visit
Is there a charge for the initial visit?
No, your first appointment is completely complimentary. As a courtesy to both you and your general dentist, we provide a free orthodontic evaluation. If X-rays or additional diagnostic tools are needed, there may be a small co-pay.
What age do you start seeing patients for orthodontic evaluations?
Following the American Association of Orthodontists’ recommendations, we suggest children have their first orthodontic check-up around age 7.
Why do you see young patients for early braces for kids evaluations?
Early visits allow us to track a child’s growth, provide education, and catch potential problems before they become more serious. Treatment is not always necessary right away, but monitoring development helps us plan the best timing if orthodontic care is needed later.
How long does the first appointment take, and is an orthodontist consultation included?
Your first visit generally lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. During this time, we may perform a basic exam and take diagnostic images if needed. You’ll also meet with Dr. Jessica Hedger to review findings and discuss possible treatment options.
Can I transfer if I’m already in treatment elsewhere?
Yes! We welcome transfer patients. You’ll receive a complete evaluation, and we’ll create a customized orthodontic treatment plan for you. There’s no large upfront fee, and we provide flexible monthly payment plans.
Do you treat adult braces patients, too?
Absolutely. More and more adults are choosing orthodontic care thanks to modern, discreet options such as clear aligners and ceramic braces.
Should I see an orthodontist or dentist for teeth alignment?
Orthodontists complete advanced training specifically focused on straightening teeth and correcting jaw issues. If you’re considering metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners, an orthodontist is the most qualified professional to guide your care.
Can I schedule all my appointments after school or late in the afternoon?
We do our best to accommodate busy school and work schedules. While some longer procedures are reserved for morning or midday, we save shorter visits for early morning or late afternoon whenever possible.
Do you handle orthodontic emergencies?
Yes. If you experience an orthodontic emergency, contact us right away. We also provide emergency instructions on our website and voicemail to help you manage issues until you can be seen.
Financial & Insurance
Do you offer monthly payments for affordable braces or clear aligner treatment?
Yes. We offer convenient, budget-friendly monthly plans that work with or without orthodontic insurance.
How do you work with insurance when calculating the cost of clear aligners or the cost of braces?
Once your insurance benefits are verified, we’ll file claims directly on your behalf. If your coverage changes during orthodontic treatment, you’ll remain responsible for the agreed financial arrangement.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, we accept most major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.
Can I set up automatic payments with direct debit?
Definitely, we make payments simple with online auto-pay and direct debit options.
Is interest charged on orthodontic payment plans?
No, our financing options are interest-free, making orthodontic treatment more affordable and accessible.
Do you provide family orthodontist discounts?
Yes, we offer family discounts when more than one member begins orthodontic care with us.
Types of Orthodontic Treatment
What is Phase 1 Treatment, and how does it support early pediatric orthodontist care?
Phase 1 treatment begins while a child still has a mix of baby and adult teeth. It focuses on addressing issues like jaw growth, crossbites, or crowding early, which can prevent more complex problems later on.
What is Phase 2 Treatment, and how is it different from braces vs clear aligners for teens?
Phase 2 takes place after all permanent teeth have come in, usually lasting 18–24 months. At this stage, full orthodontic alignment with metal braces or clear aligners is used to refine the bite and straighten the smile.
How do I know if two-phase treatment is the right teeth straightening option for teenagers?
Every patient is different. Two-phase orthodontic treatment is only recommended if it will truly benefit your child. A consultation and diagnostic review will confirm whether this approach is best.
Tooth Movement & Mechanics
If I need antibiotics for dental procedures, should I take them for orthodontic visits?
Possibly. Some patients may require pre-medication before certain orthodontic treatments. Please confirm with your physician or Dr. Hedger before your appointment.
How long does orthodontic treatment take with braces or aligners?
Most orthodontic cases are completed in about two years, though timing depends on each patient’s specific needs.
How do braces and other teeth straightening options move teeth into place?
Both braces and aligners apply gentle, consistent forces that guide teeth into proper alignment over time. Every step is carefully planned by Dr. Hedger to ensure safe and predictable results.
Do you reuse or recycle orthodontic braces?
No. All appliances are brand new to ensure the highest quality, hygiene, and safety for each patient.
Orthodontic Retainers
Do I need to wear retainers long-term after braces or clear aligners?
Yes. Retainers are worn full-time at first, then usually at night long-term to maintain your results.
Why do teeth shift even after treatment with braces or clear aligners?
Teeth naturally try to move back to their original positions. Wearing retainers as instructed is essential to prevent unwanted shifting.
Are retainers bonded behind teeth a good option?
Yes. Fixed retainers bonded behind the teeth are common and effective. They help maintain alignment but do require consistent cleaning and regular dental visits.
Wisdom Teeth (Third Molars)
Can wisdom teeth make your teeth crooked after treatment?
Research shows wisdom teeth are not the main cause of post-treatment crowding. Other factors are usually responsible for shifting.
Why might wisdom teeth be removed before or after jaw alignment treatment?
Impacted wisdom teeth can create gum issues or infections. Even without causing crowding, many orthodontists recommend removal as a preventive measure.
When is the best time to remove wisdom teeth?
Most oral surgeons recommend extraction once the roots are about two-thirds developed, typically between ages 16 and 18.
TMJ & Jaw Concerns
Can braces help treat TMJ, or can they cause TMJ symptoms?
Braces neither cure nor directly cause TMJ disorders. These conditions can arise independently of orthodontic treatment and are usually managed separately.
Health Considerations
What are the overall health benefits of wearing clear braces for adults or teens?
Orthodontic treatment improves more than just appearance; it improves chewing efficiency, supports balanced facial structure, and helps maintain oral hygiene. Straight teeth are easier to clean and can benefit overall health.
Can allergies or enlarged adenoids affect orthodontic treatment with braces?
Yes. Breathing issues caused by allergies or enlarged adenoids can impact jaw growth and contribute to crowding or misalignment.
How does tongue thrust or low tongue posture impact treatment with braces?
An improper tongue posture can put unwanted pressure on teeth, leading to gaps or protrusion. Correcting these habits improves the success of orthodontic treatment.