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Orthodontics F.A.Q.s
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about orthodontic treatment? Our FAQs provide helpful answers about braces, treatment options, costs, treatment time, adult orthodontics, and early orthodontic care for patients in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, AZ.
1. Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the orthodontist?
No, it is not. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist and other patients from our office. Patients also take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.
2. Why should you choose an orthodontic specialist?
​Orthodontic treatment permanently changes teeth and sometimes entire facial structures. The treatment must be appropriate and properly completed. Orthodontic specialists have extensive, specialized training that enables them to provide professional, personalized treatment.
3. What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
Upon arriving, each patient will be seen by our team. We will take the necessary imaging to allow Dr. Seuss to make a proper diagnosis. Dr. Seuss will then complete a thorough exam.
4. How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?
We can't provide an exact treatment cost until Dr. Seuss examines you. The Patient Care Coordinator will cover the exact cost and financial options during the initial examination. We offer many financing options to accommodate your needs, and the Patient Care Coordinator will review them with you. We will also review your insurance policy to maximize your benefit.
5. Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not “hurt.” After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all! We often remind our patients, “It does not have to hurt to work!"
6. Will teeth straighten out naturally as they grow?
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age. Early treatment is the best option to help create room for the teeth to grow into position and to coordinate the patient's bite.
7. Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that patient’s growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.
8. Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.
9. Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25% of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness, and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is “too old” to wear braces!
10. How long will it take to complete treatment?
Treatment time depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic concern. In general, treatment times range from 6 to 36 months. The “average” time frame a person is in braces is approximately 22 months.