Frequently Asked Questions (3)

What are rubber bands?
Rubber bands are a very important part of treatment.  These are removable elastics that help us get the upper and lower teeth to fit in an ideal position.  Braces alone cannot move your teeth without the constant force of the rubber bands guiding them into position.  It is very important you wear your elastics as prescribed.  If you don’t wear the elastics, treatment will take longer and you may end up with a compromised result.  Most people only need to wear elastics for six months of their total treatment time.  Isn’t it worth it for the smile of your dreams?

I have TMJ/TMD and am hoping orthodontics will cure me…
There is no evidence to prove that orthodontics will cure or cause TMJ/TMD (temporomandibular joint disorders).  It is important to have your jaw evaluated by a TMJ/TMD specialist first.  When your jaw problems are under control, we would be happy to work on your smile and bite.

Am I too old?  Nobody my age has braces.
There is no age limit to orthodontics.  As long as your teeth, gingiva and surrounding bone are healthy there is nothing stopping you!  You may be surprised to know that 1 in 5 orthodontic patients is an adult.  There are approximately one million adults in orthodontic treatment today. 

What foods should I avoid with braces?
We ask you to avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, chewy and high sugar foods.  These foods can get caught on the braces, bend wires, pull off brackets and bands and cause permanent white scars on your teeth.  You can still eat a lot of the same foods, but you may need to alter the way you eat them.  Cutting things up into small pieces and primarily using your back teeth is a good strategy.

How do I clean the braces?  Do I need a special toothbrush?
Our motto is “the best toothbrush is the one that gets used”.  For the most part, you do not need to use a special toothbrush, but you do need to spend more time cleaning your teeth, braces and gums.  We also recommend that every patient uses a fluoride based mouth rinse before bed.  We will discuss brushing and flossing when you get your braces and we will always be available for tips and suggestions when needed.

How long will I be in braces?
This will vary from case to case and the orthodontist’s treatment estimate is exactly that – an estimate.  The national average is 28 months, but treatment can last anywhere from 9-36 months depending on the severity of the problem and the compliance of the patient.  One should not choose an orthodontist based on the number of months they estimate treatment to take.  More than likely, your treatment will take the same amount of time no matter where you go or what bracket is being used.ack!   

If my child has Phase I – is there a Phase II?
Most of the time children who undergo a Phase I treatment still need a second phase of treatment.  Research has shown that children who have Phase I do not have a shorter or less complicated second phase of treatment.  There will be situations where a Phase I is necessary to help avoid more serious problems.  If there is any question, bring your child in for a consultation.

Do I need to have teeth pulled?
With advances in technology, the need for removal of permanent teeth has significantly decreased.  In certain situations, however, extraction of permanent teeth is still necessary to provide optimal facial and dental esthetics.  In situations where removing teeth is necessary the spaces will be closed and no one will ever know you had them out. 

How long do I have to wear my retainers?
Research has shown that teeth shift over time with or without braces.  No treatment is 100% stable.  This is why retainers are a lifetime commitment.  We will ask you to wear them full time (24/7) for the first 6 months, every night for 2 years and then at least 3 nights a week for life.

What types of retainers are there?
There are many types of retainers.  It is important for Drs. Courtney and Matthew Dunn to look at your case and give you their recommendations for what is best for you.  Of course, we also want your input.  Generally there are 4 types of retainers:
Invisible retainers (clear trays that cover the teeth)
Hawley retainers (plastic and wire retainers)
Permanent retainers (glued to the inside of the teeth)
Positioners (looks like an upper and lower mouthguard glued together)

Are braces expensive?
Orthodontic fees have not increased as fast as many other consumer products.  The treatment fee will vary depending on the severity of the case.  Drs. Courtney and Matthew Dunn will work with you to create a financial arrangement that works best for you.  Dunn Orthodontics offers interest free financing as well as sibling and military discounts.  The average monthly payments may be lower than you think.  We do not want finances to get in the way of the smile of your dreams.

How does insurance work?
We accept almost all orthodontic insurances – we can file with any PPO.  Do not be fooled by internet provider lists.  Call our front desk and we can look up your insurance benefits before your first appointment.  Usually your insurance will cover part of the fee and you will be responsible for the rest.  We are happy to work with your insurance companies to maximize your benefit.

What about sterilization?
Our patient’s health, safety and peace of mind are very important to us.  Therefore, we use state-of-the-art sterilization techniques for our all equipment and surfaces.  Our staff is OSHA trained and follows all guidelines carefully.  If you have any questions about our procedures, please ask.

 

Arizona Dental Association