Also, referred to as Dentofacial Orthopedics, Orthodontics is one of the 12 dental specialties. Orthodontics’ area of concern is on the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and correction of malocclusion (tooth alignment and bite problems), as well as skeletal abnormalities developing facial structures.
Orthodontist were first dentists who then went on to an accredited orthodontic residency for an additional 2-3 years of training. In Dr. Walker’s case, he was a dentist for 6 years before going back to orthodontic residency.
The American Association of Orthodontist recommends that a child’s first visit be no later than the age of seven. However, if you are unhappy with your smile, any age can be a great age to be evaluated for orthodontic treatment. Almost 1 out of every 5 patients is over the age of 21 and we have had patients in their 80’s!! Luckily, teeth don’t lose their ability to be moved as we age.
The first visit is about obtaining information and answering all your questions. It typically lasts about an hour where we’ll do an exam and take photos and x-rays. Dr. Walker then discusses the findings and any treatment recommendations. No pressure; it’s a piece of cake!
This is a very tough questions to answer prior to a complete evaluation, but broadly speaking, most treatment falls between 6 and 24 months.
There is some soreness for the first few days after braces are placed and the teeth start to move. It is very similar to the muscle soreness experienced when exercising for the first time in a long time. And just like muscle soreness subsides in a couple of days, so does the soreness from tooth movement. After this initial soreness has subsided it’s smooth sailing. A soft diet, chewing gum, and over-the-counter pain relievers such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol, can be helpful to mitigate this initial soreness. Also, Dakota Orthodontics will be there for you every step of the way!
Yes, that would be a very good idea! It would be best to brush every time you eat to remove food that may get caught between your braces and around your gums; ideally 3 times a day and floss one time daily. It is very important to the Dakota Orthodontics’ team that you don’t only have a beautiful smile, but also a healthy smile. We will show you proper brushing techniques and provide you with the tools that help keep those teeth and gums squeaky clean.
Yes, for two reasons. First: braces are made to be removed, so sticky, hard, or crunchy foods should be avoided. Secondly: sugary/acidic beverages, like Coke or Gatorade, often lead to “scars” or white spots on the teeth. It is important to Dr. Walker and the team at Dakota Orthodontics that their patients get the very best results, and the truth is that sugary/acidic beverages are not compatible with braces and should be avoided. It’s a small price to pay for a lifetime with a beautiful smile.
Yes, it requires some adjustment, but braces will not make it impossible to do any these things. If you are playing a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a proper mouthguard to protect you and the braces.
You will be given retainers at the end of treatment and it will be your responsibility to wear them as prescribed, which is typically at night while you sleep. As previously mentioned, teeth are always moving, so wearing your retainers should be become part of your routine; they’re like PJ’s for your teeth.
You can simply give our office a call, submit a request, or pick a date and time here. Dr. Walker and the team at Dakota Orthodontics looks forward to meeting you and helping in any way we can.
At Dakota Orthodontics, we offer patients several different options for payment! Most families choose to make payments throughout the course of treatment; we also have options for internal financing to lower monthly payments if preferred. These details and options will be discussed at your FREE New Patient Consultation!
Depending on your individual dental insurance, there may be some financial Orthodontic benefit that can be applied to help pay for your braces or other Orthodontic needs. In order to get more details about your specific benefits, we recommend contacting your dental insurance. If you need help with this step, we are happy to assist you!