FAQ
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Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is the process of straightening teeth and treating related skeletal problems which may affect how you feel about your appearance and how you interact with those around you. Orthodontics also contributes to the long term oral health of the individual: cleaning is made easier, and the teeth are placed in a position to better prevent wear over time. Orthodontics can help you have the best smile possible!
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Orthodontists complete dental school just as general dentists do. Orthodontists are also trained as specialists for 2 or more years beyond dental school at an accredited, university-based program. This allows them to hone their skills and expertise to better treat dental and dentofacial irregularities (crooked teeth and other related skeletal problems). A general dentist by law may provide orthodontic treatment, but he or she has not completed the training necessary to become a specialist in orthodontics.
Moving teeth with braces and other appliances involves more than just putting on brackets and wires and lining up teeth. Orthodontics is a complex process. Care must be given to diagnose growth and bite problems as well as issues associated with the appearance and crowding of the teeth.We certainly encourage you to take your decision seriously as to whom to trust with your smile and with your orthodontic health.
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The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial screening any time after age seven. At age seven permanent incisors have erupted and many important problems can be detected at that point: crossbites, problems with eruption of permanent teeth, open bites, severe crowding, etc.
We do not necessarily start this early, but it is better to know if early intervention is needed. In certain cases orthodontics becomes more complicated if early treatment is not provided, and sometimes our options become more limited. For more information about orthodontic problems in growing children, please visit the “Child Orthodontics” section at www.braces.org.
Treatment can generally start any time for teenagers and adults. More and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment. Many have felt self-conscious about their smile for years. We offer esthetic options for adults, including esthetic clear braces and Invisalign®.
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Your initial consultation is free of charge. At this meeting Dr. Baird will evaluate your needs to give you an idea of what would be involved with your treatment. He will give you an estimate of how long treatment will take. He will also estimate your financial investment in your orthodontic treatment at this visit.
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Adjustment visits are scheduled every 4-8 weeks, depending on what we need to accomplish.
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Most cases are finished between 18 months and two years. Depending on your specific problems, treatment time can range from as little as six months up to two years or more. Early or Phase I treatment generally lasts between 6-12 months.
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We are preferred providers for the following insurance companies: Aetna, Amertias, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, Delta Dental, Dental Select, Educators Mutual, Guardian, Humana, Met Life, Principal, Select Health, TDA, United Concordia and United Healthcare. We will work with you to get the most out of your insurance coverage that we possibly can!
Orthodontic treatment is a great investment in your smile and dental health. The cost depends on what treatment is needed. Dr. Baird will give you a price estimate at your first visit.
We offer several payment options to work within your budget. Our options include a discount for payment in full, interest-free financing with a low down payment, and a no down payment option. We also accept major credit cards for your convenience.
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Aligners can be used to straighten teeth without braces. A series of clear “aligners” are worn day and night to gradually move the teeth into their ideal positions. The advantages are clear: no braces means better esthetics and makes cleaning the teeth much easier. Not all cases are candidates for aligners, but Dr. Baird is happy to provide this option if it is right for you.