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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about your orthodontic journey? We've got you covered!
You can schedule an appointment by contacting our office by phone or using our online form. We'll be happy to find a convenient time for you.
During your first visit, you'll meet our team, have a consultation with Dr. Nicholas Terrana, and discuss your goals. Consultations include an exam, photos, diagnostic x-rays, a 3D scan of your teeth, and a custom treatment plan. Feel free to ask any questions you may have.
Yes, we offer emergency appointments. If you have an urgent issue with your orthodontic treatment, contact us, and we'll schedule your visit.
The duration varies for each patient. Most treatments can last anywhere from 6 to 24 months depending on complexity. Dr. Terrana will provide a personalized estimate during your consultation.
We offer flexible payment plans, interest-free in-house financing, and accept most PPO insurances. We'll work with you to find a financial solution that suits your needs.
You may experience some discomfort or soreness, especially after adjustments. However, it's usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and should improve within a few days.
Regular brushing, flossing, and maintaining good oral hygiene are crucial as well as keeping up with your regularly scheduled cleanings with your dentist. We'll provide further instructions on proper care during your treatment.
Yes, however, it's advisable to wear a mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth during physical activities.
Consistency is essential for successful treatment. If you miss an appointment, contact us to reschedule as soon as possible.
No, you don't need a referral. You can schedule a consultation directly with us.
Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for orthodontic treatment. We accept most PPO insurances and can help you navigate your benefits.
Retainers help maintain the alignment of your teeth after treatment. They are crucial for ensuring that your smile lasts a lifetime.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends making the first orthodontist visit around age 7 to screen for any developing orthodontic problems.
Yes, you should try to avoid any foods that are very hard, crunchy, or sticky. These foods can damage, break, or loosen your braces or wires. Frequent breakage to your braces or wires can prolong time spent in treatment. Some examples of foods to avoid include popcorn, nuts, chips, hard candy, and hard pizza crust. Hard fruits and vegetables, like apples and carrots, should be cut up into small pieces.
Invisalign involves a series of clear aligners that are custom made to your teeth. They are removable which makes brushing and flossing easy. Since there are no brackets or wires, you can eat just about whatever you want as long as you take your aligners out to do so. Invisalign is also much more discreet and there are generally fewer appointments compared to braces.
Common Orthodontic Emergencies
Even with the best care, braces or orthodontic appliances can sometimes become damaged. We want to enable our patients to know how to temporarily remedy any issues that may occur. These solutions are meant to guide you and provide comfort until you can be seen at our office. Always feel free to contact our office with any questions or concerns, or to schedule an appointment.
Loose bracket – If one of your brackets becomes completely detached, please call our office to schedule a repair at your earliest convenience. If your loose bracket is still attached to the wire, you can let it remain there until you can come in to have it repaired. If it is uncomfortable, you can try applying wax over the bracket or any poking areas.
Broken wire – If your wire breaks into more than one piece, call our office for an appointment to have the wire replaced. Place wax over any uncomfortable or poking areas.
Loose wire – Attempt to guide the wire back into the bracket tube or slot. If you are unable to, you can cover the loose wire end with wax to relieve any discomfort and call our office for an appointment.
Poking wire – You can apply wax over any poking wire ends to relieve any discomfort.
Lost elastic color tie – Thankfully, this is not a true emergency. You can notify an assistant at your next appointment.
Soreness – Most patients will experience some soreness during treatment. We recommend rinsing with lukewarm salt water and using whichever over-the-counter pain reliever you normally take for aches and pains. Most soreness usually resolves within a few days.
Appliance or retainer does not fit – This can sometimes occur if your appliance or retainer is not being worn as often as prescribed. Call our office for an appointment to have it checked out.
Accidents involving teeth – Contact our office or head to the nearest emergency room.