When Should I Get a Consultation for Braces?
Braces have come a long way in recent years, jumping from the usual metal wire design people associate with orthodontia to the clear plastic dental retainers you see today. While dentists use both kinds of braces, there are a lot of options on the table when it comes to getting braces.
Most children get braces when most of their baby teeth have fallen out. However, orthodontic treatment can begin before all the baby teeth are gone, especially for more severe dental issues. In most cases, early treatment of dental problems can prevent complications down the road, so the sooner your child undergoes a braces consultation, the better chance of avoiding dental issues down the line.
Of course, there are braces and dental treatment options for adults. Adult braces are a regular occurrence and can be required even if you have had braces as a child, as your teeth can shift over time. Adult braces can be either traditional metal or take advantage of clear retainers for orthodontic treatment that don't directly impact your smile's appearance.
With all this in mind, let's look at when to get a consultation for braces and what you should expect on your first visit.
Consultation with an Orthodontist
In most cases, an orthodontic consult will be either fully or partially covered by dental insurance and will give you a good idea of the kind of treatment best suited for your teeth. During your first visit, your dentist will examine your teeth's bite alignment and overall straightness and potentially take an x-ray. Your orthodontist may also take an impression of your teeth to help you decide the best treatment options for your teeth. In most cases, an orthodontic consultation for braces is a quick, easy process and is nothing to stress about.
After your consultation, your orthodontist will review different kinds of options available for you. In most cases, standard braces with brackets and wires are needed to adjust your overall bite, though clear retainers have come a long way and are a viable treatment option, though they may cost more overall than traditional braces.
Your orthodontist should go over the estimated time you'll need to wear braces and the overall cost of your braces. The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the severity of your bite misalignment, your chosen treatment plan, and any dental insurance you may have. Braces cost between $3,000 to $6,000, though your insurance can impact this price. Discuss payment options with your orthodontist at your braces consultation, and bring your insurance card. If you want braces for your child, some foundations can help offset the cost.
If you are interested in getting braces, set up a consultation with Graff Orthodontics today by calling (505) 327-4884. We proudly serve patients in the Farmington, NM, area and would be happy to discuss treatment options with you and answer any orthodontic questions you may have. Give us a call or set up an appointment online to improve your smile today.