Why Do Some Young Children Get Braces At An Early Age And Then Again Later?

In some younger children, it may be advisable to treat certain conditions in two phases. That's because certain situations require earlier intervention. An early stage of treatment could prevent extractions of permanent teeth and provide for an overall more stable result as an adult. A first phase of treatment when indicated usually continues for a year or less and may be advised as young as age seven.

How Frequently Do I Need To Visit The Orthodontist?

Usually from 3-8 weeks. With modern technology, each office treatment "adjustment" could continue to "work" for up to eight weeks or more, thereby eliminating the necessity to visit our office every month.

Do Braces Hurt?

You can expect that your typical office visit will be a pleasant one and will involve minimal discomfort, if any. No anesthetics or medications are necessary while at the office. However, it is possible for the teeth to be moderately uncomfortable for a day or so following some "adjustment" appointments. On occasion, mild pain medication such as Tylenol or aspirin may be helpful for a day or so.

What Are Your Hours?

Our workday beings at 8AM and is completed by 5:30 PM daily. However, there are particular days and times that certain types of treatment and consulations are scheduled.

Is It Necessary For My Child To Miss School Or For Me To Miss Work For An Orthodontic Appointment?

Unfortunately, there are only so many hours in each day. While we strive to provide as many after school and late day appointments as possible, it is necessary to see our patients for some lengthy appointments earlier in the day. We strive to offer such appointments at times when students have non-academic subjects or before work (or during lunch hours), so as to minimize loss of valuable school and work time. For those with unusually special needs, special scheduling arrangements can be made.

Can I Have Invisalign Instead Of Braces?

Modern technology has provided alternative types of treatment to fixed braces, such as Invisalign and "Clear Correct." Invisalign or "Clear Correct" align teeth without traditional fixed braces and involves the wearing of a series of clear aligners which cover the teeth. Each aligner helps direct the teeth to the next stage of alignment. While Dr. Wintner has much experience with Invisalign and "Clear Correct" and has been certified to provide this alternative to braces, only relatively minor treatments are best treated with these clear appliances. That's because this technology does not allow the orthodontist to provide the intricate, detailed special movements that only traditional braces can provide. Tooth-colored ceramic braces are a very popular alternative to silver braces and are hardly noticeable on the teeth.

What Types Of Braces Do You Offer?

Dr. Wintner's practice offers tooth colored ceramic braces (hardly noticeable) and traditional silver braces. We offer brightly colored elastic ties to engage the main wire to each bracket just to have fun. The ties can be clear so as to blend with the attached braces.

Do You Have Payments Plans? How Much Do Braces Cost? Do I Need A Down Payment?