1. When should my child have an initial consultation with an orthodontist?

Although individual problems determine the best time to start orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontics recommends that every child have a check up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.

Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early rather than treating when jaw growth has slowed. Unfortunately, many parents assume they must wait until a child has all of his or her permanent teeth, only to find out that treatment would have been much easier if started earlier.

Rest assured, Dr. Leiss never takes chances with children. He recommends treatment at a time that is best for the child. Frequently, taking a young child to the office results in a developmental recall where Dr. Leiss will ask to see the child back in 6 to 12 months to reevaluate his or her need for treatment. Evaluating facial growth and tooth eruption periodically allows Dr. Leiss to choose the most opportune time to start treatment.

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2. What happens at the initial consultation?

The initial, complimentary consultation takes about a half an hour. During this appointment you are able tour the office, meet the staff, and receive a clinical examination by Dr. Leiss. After talking with you and addressing questions or concerns, if treatment is recommended, our treatment coordinator will give you all of the information you need to make a decision about treatment. You will leave the office clearly understanding why treatment was or was not recommended and the treatment fee if applicable.

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3. Why are some patients treated in two phases?

In most cases where early orthodontic treatment is recommended, the objective of the first phase of treatment will be one or more of the following:

– to correct the jaw disproportions before aligning the teeth.
– to eliminate damaging habits.
– to prevent injury to protruded teeth.
– to manage insufficient arch length (crowding).

With these problems, early intervention may provide advantages that are not available later. After the permanent teeth erupt, the treatment objective is to achieve optimal esthetics and stability.

The need for interceptive orthodontics (phase 1 treatment) must be determined on an individual basis. After diagnosis, Dr. Leiss will determine if the benefits and opportunities significantly outweigh the time and effort involved in early treatment. For some children, a delayed single-phase treatment is the best approach.

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4. Do all the permanent teeth need to be erupted before starting orthodontic treatment?

No. By waiting until all permanent teeth are erupted may be a problem of missed opportunity with respect to growth and development. It is useful to view treatment opportunities in three phases: early, on time or too late. While patients can be treated at any age, those with available growth may enjoy a substantial advantage. For some patients, early treatment may also aid in psychological development that is appearance-related. Most harmful oral habits respond best to early treatment. A patient referred in the mixed dentition may also benefit from space management and guidance of eruption.

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5. How long will orthodontic treatment take?

Each case in Dr. Leiss’ office is diagnosed and treatment planned in advance of starting treatment. At the case presentation appointment, Dr. Leiss is able to explain treatment and give each patient an idea of approximately how long he or she will be in treatment. The average treatment time for full braces in Dr. Leiss’ office is 18 months.

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6. How does orthodontic insurance work?

Our office staff is very knowledgeable and capable of interpreting and handling insurance filing and questions. We ask our patients, during the initial phone call, insurance information. This allows us to give accurate information at the initial complimentary consultation. All insurance plans vary. Dr. Leiss is a participating provider with many insurance companies. He also accepts many insurance plans. We take the hassle out of insurance by interpreting and filing for you!

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7. What are retainers?

Retainers are appliances placed in the mouth after treatment is completed to keep the teeth stable in their new positions. Retainers are a vital part of treatment. The teeth need to adjust to their new placement and retainers allow this to happen over time. They can be removable or fixed appliances. Dr. Leiss’ retainers are included in the treatment fee and he follows his patients for one year of retention.

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8. Is my oral hygiene going to change with braces?

Our motto is “Clean teeth move faster!”. Your oral hygiene does not have to change as result of orthodontic treatment. All of the instructions and tools you will need to maintain your oral hygiene are given in our office. Suggestions are given during treatment if the need arises. We are always there to help.

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9. Why are extractions sometimes recommended?

Early removal of selected primary teeth can be necessary to guide the eruption of
permanent teeth. Carefully timed extractions may prevent a variety of problems, including:

– Palatal impaction or high eruption of permanent canines with little or no attached gingiva.
– Root resorption, especially on permanent lateral incisors.
– Severe crowding in the permanent dentition requiring extensive appliance therapy.

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