We hope that the information on this website will help give clarity to the treatments we offer at Old Metairie Orthodontics. We also want to let you know that our team is happy to answer any questions you may have regarding your or your child’s orthodontic treatment, including questions about cost. Please give our Metairie, LA, office a call at your convenience.
When should I schedule my child’s first orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, your child will likely have a few permanent teeth already, and the orthodontist will have an opportunity to evaluate the development of these teeth and your child’s overall orthodontic condition. Treatment may not start at this time, but the earlier we see your child, the sooner we can start tracking the development of your child’s teeth and plan for early intervention if needed.
What will I learn at the initial examination?
Your first appointment with Dr. Block is an excellent opportunity to ask questions about treatment options, cost, and anything else of concern. Some of the things we will cover during your initial examination include
- Whether or not there is an orthodontic issue to be corrected
- A plan for correcting any orthodontic issues that are discovered
- If you or your child will require a referral to an oral surgeon for additional procedures to complete your orthodontic treatment
- An estimation of the length of your or your child’s treatment
- An estimation of the cost of your or your child’s treatment
How much do braces cost? Do you have financing options? Do you accept insurance?
The best way to learn about your costs for orthodontic treatment at Old Metairie Orthodontics is to give us a call to schedule your initial examination with Dr. Block. We will cover the projected cost of your personalized treatment as well as your financial options and insurance coverage during this appointment. We have several financing options available for your convenience, and we will review these with you as well. Of course, our team will work closely with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits.
During orthodontic treatment, are dental checkups every six months still required?
Yes. Kids and adults receiving orthodontic treatment must keep their oral health in top shape by regularly visiting the family dentist. Regular brushing and flossing is a must — brushing three times per day is recommended to ward off cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure your teeth stay healthy during your orthodontic treatment.
Can my child play sports or an instrument with braces?
Absolutely! It may take a little getting used to at first, but your child will be able to play an instrument or a sport while they have braces or retainers. You can assure your child that their orthodontic treatment will not stop them from participating in any of their favorite activities. If your child plays a contact sport, we recommend they wear a mouthguard to protect their braces and teeth during play.
Can my child return to school the day they receive braces? Can I return to work the day I receive braces?
Yes. The placement of braces at Old Metairie Orthodontics is a very efficient, safe, and comfortable process. You/your child may feel some minor soreness while adjusting to new braces, but most of our patients have no discomfort the day they receive their braces. There is no reason to miss school or work because of an orthodontic appointment.
Are there foods to avoid while wearing braces?
Yes. Once orthodontic treatment begins, we will explain all the instructions to you and your child, including what foods to avoid with braces. Some of the foods that can cause damage to the brackets and wires of braces include ice, hard candy, nuts, apples, raw vegetables, and sticky foods such as certain kinds of candy and gum. Most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces can be avoided by carefully following the instructions we will provide.
How long will the orthodontic treatment last?
The best way to find out how long your/your child’s treatment time will be is to come in and see us for your complimentary consultation. Dr. Block will perform an exam and give you a full report on what she thinks is the best treatment plan for you/your child and how long the treatment will last. Treatment time is different for everyone, but it’s safe to say that most patients have braces for a little under two years.
How often are the appointments?
At Old Metairie Orthodontics, we know you’re busy, so we like to schedule appointments about every five to ten weeks. If your/your child’s treatment is more extensive, we may schedule appointments more often, but we will make sure the appointments are as efficient as possible.
What is Phase One treatment?
Phase One treatment is early orthodontic treatment for children that is most often begun between the ages of 7 and 10. This phase of treatment can last from 12 to 21 months. Phase One treatment is often initiated to correct significant problems that we detect during a child’s first exam so that we can prevent more severe orthodontic problems for your child in the future. There is a resting period after Phase One treatment when the orthodontist carefully monitors your child’s developing growth and tooth eruption. After Phase One and the resting period, an additional treatment with braces may be recommended for your child. The team at Old Metairie Orthodontics will keep you completely informed along the way.
Do you offer orthodontic treatment for adults?
No patient is too old for braces! Old Metairie Orthodontics welcomes and treats patients of all ages. A significant percentage of our patients are adults who are finally achieving the smile they have always wanted. With advanced treatment options that provide maximum dental and cosmetic benefit, such as Invisalign® and lingual braces that hide behind the teeth, more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment than ever before! In fact, about 20% of patients with braces are over 18.
Some dentists can place braces, so why should I choose an orthodontist?
Board-certified orthodontic specialists with extensive and specialized training, such as our own Dr. Block, are the very best choice for you and your family’s orthodontic treatment. Why? Because teeth, and sometimes the entire orofacial structure, is permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. Your/your child’s orthodontic needs should be expertly assessed by an orthodontist so that a professional, safe, and personalized treatment plan can be developed and carried out from start to finish. Beware of anyone advertising bargain braces.
