No, a referral from your family dentist is not necessary to schedule an orthodontic exam with Dr. Lewis. Many of our patients are referred by their dentist, but you can call and schedule an appointment directly for your initial consultation.
Orthodontic treatment corrects malocclusions (poor bites) and aligns crooked teeth, benefiting both function and aesthetics. It can improve dental health, enhance facial appearance, boost self-confidence, and reduce the risk of jaw pain and gum disease by creating a healthy bite.
Signs of a bite problem include crowded, protruding, or spaced teeth, an open bite, clicking jaws, mouth breathing, frequent cheek biting, a narrow smile, and posterior crossbite. These issues indicate that orthodontic treatment is likely needed.
After age 6, when the first molars erupt, the amount of space for teeth does not increase without treatment. Crooked teeth typically stay the same or worsen over time. Early orthodontic evaluation is advisable to correct alignment issues and ensure long-term dental health.
It is never too late for orthodontic treatment. Adults of all ages can benefit from braces or aligners to correct their teeth. About 25% of our patients are adults, including those in their 60s and 70s. Orthodontic treatment can improve appearance, self-esteem, and overall health at any age.
To schedule an appointment, call our office at (770) 924-7826, send us an email at [email protected], or fill out the appointment request form on our website. Our front office staff will guide you through the process and request some basic information.
At your first visit, you will meet Dr. Lewis, who will perform a thorough examination and discuss treatment options. Initial records, including photographs and X-rays, will be taken. Dr. Lewis will explain your options and answer any questions. Our office manager will discuss a custom financial plan, considering any available insurance. We will then schedule your next appointment to begin treatment.
You will gain a clear understanding of your orthodontic needs, the recommended treatment plan, duration, and cost. You will also experience our caring staff and efficient treatment plans designed to minimize treatment time. We encourage you to ask questions and will provide a comfortable, friendly environment.
Depending on the severity of your case, teeth extraction may be required to achieve optimal results. However, advances in orthodontic techniques often make extractions unnecessary.
Treatment duration varies depending on the complexity of your case. Most treatments last an average of 18 months, but some cases can be completed in as little as 6-8 months, while more complex cases may take 24-30 months.
The exact cost of treatment can only be determined after an examination. During your initial examination, we will discuss the exact cost and our flexible financial options. We offer several financing options to meet your needs and will help you understand your insurance benefits, filing claims on your behalf if orthodontic benefits are available.
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs and the appliances currently being worn. Most patients in braces will be seen every 4 to 12 weeks for checkups. During each appointment, your orthodontist will assess the progress of your treatment and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.
Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled 5 to 10 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatment. We will make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.
Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in with the clinical technician treating their child before dropping off their child.
Placing the brackets (braces) on the teeth does not cause any pain. In most cases, patients do not experience any soreness. Occasionally, the evening of the appointment and possibly the following day, the teeth might be a little tender. Over-the-counter pain medications like aspirin or Advil can help with mild discomfort. Post-appointment soreness usually lasts less than 24 hours and should not be too intense.
Placing the brackets (braces) on the teeth does not cause any pain. In most cases, patients do not experience any soreness. Occasionally, the evening of the appointment and possibly the following day, the teeth might be a little tender. Over-the-counter pain medications like aspirin or Advil can help with mild discomfort. Post-appointment soreness usually lasts less than 24 hours and should not be too intense.
There should be no reason you or your child would need to miss school or work because of an orthodontic appointment. Discomfort from treatment is generally minimal and should not interfere with regular activities.
Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.
No! Orthodontic brackets should only be used on a single patient. Each patient should be provided with their own specific treatment plan and appliances to achieve the best orthodontic result possible.
Yes. We recommend a protective mouthguard for all sports. We can provide a mouthguard to any patient who participates in sports. A proper fitting mouthguard helps protect your teeth and braces from damage and reduces possible discomfort.
Absolutely! Regular cleanings and check-ups with your family dentist are still very important while in braces. We recommend that you see your family dentist every four months for cleaning appointments while you are in braces.
Yes, there are certain foods to avoid while having braces. Once treatment begins, we will review proper care instructions with you and provide a list of foods to avoid. Foods that are hard, crunchy, or sticky can damage the braces and prolong treatment time. It is best to avoid eating popcorn, nuts, hard candy, and chewy foods such as caramel and taffy. Additionally, you should cut up raw fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces before eating them. If in doubt about a food item, please contact us.
It's best to brush after eating anything, even snacks, and especially after a meal. Brushing away cavity-causing bacteria is important and helps your teeth stay cavity-free. Carry a travel toothbrush in a backpack, purse, or briefcase to always have on hand for brushing away from home. Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day and pay special attention to cleaning around the brackets and wires of the braces.
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