Frequently Asked
Questions
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child be evaluated by age seven. Early detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later on.
How do I know if my child is in need of orthodontic
treatment?
It is usually difficult for you to determine if treatment is necessary, because there are many problems that can occur even though the front teeth look straight. Conversely, there are some problems that look intimidating and complex, but will resolve on their own. Asking your general dentist is good reference, but we are your best resource since orthodontics is all we do. We would be more than happy to see your child and make any recommendations necessary. Please feel free to give us a call and schedule an appointment.
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What is the difference between an orthodontist
and a regular dentist?
All orthodontists are dentists, but only about 6 percent
of dentists are orthodontists. An orthodontist is a
specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment
of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must
first attend college, and then complete four years of
dental school. They must then successfully complete
an additional three-year residency program of advanced
education in orthodontics. Through this training, the
orthodontist learns the skills required to manage tooth
movement (orthodontics) and guide facial development
(dentofacial orthopedics).
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Do you treat adult patients?
Yes, and we offer clear braces as well as Invisalign® (invisible braces).
Do you charge for an initial visit?
For the majority of patients, the initial visit is complimentary. However, under certain circumstances (i.e. transfer patients, patients already in treatment with another orthodontist, patients who want their retainers checked, etc.) an office fee may be assessed. You will be notified when you schedule your appointment if this is the case. The appointment usually lasts 1/2hr.
Where are you located?
Our office is located on the corner of Union Street and Waverly Place, four blocks west of McClellan Street. You can park in the lot behind the building or on Waverly Place.
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How much do braces cost and what’s included
in the fee?
It is not possible to determine how much your braces
will cost until you are seen for an orthodontic evaluation
by Dr. DeLuke.
The fee includes:
- All Braces/Appliances
- All procedures performed and visits throughout
the duration of treatment
- Retainers and retainer check-up appointments
The fee does not include:
- Orthodontic Records
- Replacement of appliances that are lost or broken
due to patient negligence
- Any general dentistry, extractions, or other treatment
performed outside our office
- Duplication of records
- Fees charged for multiple missed appointments,
late arrivals, or delinquent account
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What are Orthodontic Records and how does
the office bill for them?
If Dr. DeLuke feels a patient can benefit from orthodontic treatment he will recommend that Orthodontic Records be taken.
Orthodontic Records Include:
- A full comprehensive Clinical Examination
- Panoramic and Cephalometric Radiographs
- Upper and Lower Impressions of the teeth
- Digital pictures of the face and teeth
- Case presentation and Consultation
Dr. DeLuke then uses these records to formulate a detailed Treatment Plan for the patient. This plan will be presented and discussed in detail at the Consultation Visit. Having records taken in no way commits a patient to receiving treatment. For this reason, the fee for orthodontic records is separate from the fee for braces.
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Do you do Invisalign (invisible braces)?
Yes, Dr. DeLuke is certified to provide Invisalign®. At the initial evaluation
he will determine if you are a candidate.
Do you do lingual braces?
Yes. At the initial visit Dr. DeLuke will determine
if you are a candidate.
Do you have Saturday or evening hours?
We will make every effort to accommodate your schedule,
but in order for our staff to have time with their families,we are closed on weekends.
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Do braces hurt?
While teeth may feel slightly sore and uncomfortable
as they move the teeth, braces themselves are not painful.
The teeth will usually feel a little sore for a couple
of days after the braces are put on, and after each
subsequent appointment. Tylenol or ibuprofen will lessen
the discomfort.
How long will I have to wear braces for?
The average time in braces is 2 years. However, it
is not possible to determine how long you will be in
braces until you are seen by Dr. DeLuke for an initial
evaluation.
How do you handle transfer patients? Is there
a fee?
We welcome transfer patients to our office. The fee
for treatment depends upon the stage of treatment the
patient is in, and can’t be determined until you
are seen for an evaluation by Dr. DeLuke.
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Can I eat with my retainers in?
No. It is very important that you always remove your
retainers to eat or drink anything, as they will hold
food particles and sugars against the teeth and gums,
leading to tooth decay and/or gum disease.
How do you handle dental insurance in your
office?
- Orthodontic insurance works differently from other
medical and dental insurances. Our office policy regarding
insurance is as follows:
- As a courtesy to our patients, we will submit treatment
claim forms to your insurance company on your behalf.
- Patients are required to make the payments as detailed
in the office’s financial contract, regardless
of insurance benefits and/or payments.
- Insurance reimbursements will go directly from the
insurance company to the policy holder. Your insurance
policy is a contract between the insurance company
and you (the policy holder). Our office has no contractual
obligations with any insurance companies, and as such,
will not accept money from the insurance
company.
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Does every patient need to have Phase I/Early
Treatment?
Absolutely not. Only certain bites require early intervention.
All others can wait until most if not all their permanent
teeth erupt.
What happens if I decide not to pursue Phase
I/Early Treatment and wait until the patient is older
to get braces?
If your child needs Phase I treatment this usually
means that he has a difficult problem that requires
attention now. If no orthodontic action is taken, treatment
options become limited, more difficult, and the long
term stability may be compromised.
What are extraction and non-extraction therapy,
and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
Extraction therapy is a technique where some teeth
are removed to make room for the other teeth in your
child's mouth. This is in contrast to non-extraction
therapy where one expands a patients' jaw and re-contour
some teeth in order to make everything fit. Dr. DeLuke
will discuss all options at the consultation visit.
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