Question 1

Will I really have more confidence?

Accepted Answer

When you love your smile, you'll feel better about yourself. When you feel better about yourself, that's going to show… to everyone you interact with. You'll smile more, laugh more, and in general, you'll be less self-conscious.

Question 2

Can I afford braces?

Accepted Answer

For most people, the answer is yes! We know orthodontics is a big investment in yourself, but we are very good at helping you budget and plan for braces.  Our team is even skilled in helping you use an FSA or an HSA (if offered through your work or health insurance) so you can avoid paying taxes on money used for braces!  We offer payment plans of about $200 a month or less, and that's if you don't have insurance! Plus, we don't charge interest or financing fees.

Question 3

What is getting braces put on like?

Accepted Answer

Getting your braces put on by an orthodontist is easy. Some people even fall asleep! First, the assistant will clean and prepare your teeth before adhering the braces to your teeth like little stickers. Next, your cheeks are held away from your teeth with a retractor, so your teeth stay dry. After that, you pick the colors for your braces, and the assistant ties in your wires with the colored ties. Then we go over instructions on how to keep your teeth clean and what you can eat. In about an hour, you are done! Easy peasy.

Question 4

Does getting braces hurt?

Accepted Answer

No, but afterward, you will probably get a little sore. If you have ever played sports or played outside and had sore legs or arms the next day, that's what your teeth will feel like. Your orthodontic assistant and orthodontist will show you how to use wax to keep the braces from rubbing your lips and cheeks and explain how much Ibuprofen and Tylenol you can take to alleviate most, if not all, of the discomfort.

Question 5

How much does getting braces cost?

Accepted Answer

We aren't being sneaky when we say we need to see your teeth and your bite first. We really do! Every case is different. It's like asking an orthopedic surgeon, "My knee hurts... how much is it to fix it?" The human body just isn't that simple. You might only need 6 months to touch up some alignment, or you might need something more complicated, like a full two years of braces. Frequently, Dr. Garrett will give you several options, and you can pick the plan you like best, even if it doesn't fix every single problem we see. You are in control, and the choice will be up to you. We can usually find an option that suits your timeframe and your budget. That's why we offer a personalized free consultation, so we can answer all your questions.

Question 6

How often will I have to come for appointments?

Accepted Answer

Braces, wires, and Invisalign are much more high-tech, and orthodontists know more about tooth movement than ever before. That means we can see you for fewer appointments than years ago and often go longer between them. In the beginning, it's usually around 8-10 weeks for braces and 10-12 weeks for Invisalign. That means you miss less work, and less school, making braces more convenient for you and your schedule.

Question 7

Does my insurance pay for braces?

Accepted Answer

If they do, we will help you get the maximum benefits and file all the paperwork for you. Most insurance companies have a set dollar amount they will pay over the patient's lifetime. But we promise that whatever your maximum benefit is, we will help you get it and make it as easy as possible for you.

Question 8

Do you take Medicaid?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do when Medicaid covers braces, but that's not in all cases. They have strict rules for the type of bites they will help pay to fix, and most have to be pretty severe. That being said, if you meet the criteria, we will file the applications and request review by their board. We can't control their decisions, but we can help you through the process, and we have done so successfully many times.

Question 9

Am I a candidate for Invisalign?

Accepted Answer

Almost always, yes. There is almost always a way to straighten your teeth with Invisalign or mostly Invisalign. Even if you have been told by other doctors that you don't qualify, you should come by for a consultation.

Question 10

Will I need a retainer?

Accepted Answer

Every orthodontic patient requires a retainer to some degree. Just like if you get into great physical shape, it still requires maintenance with diet and exercise. It won't take the same level of commitment needed to get there, but you won't be able to completely let yourself go, either. Go get your car detailed? You're going to have to keep it clean. With braces or Invisalign, you'll need to wear a retainer at least one night a week for as long as you want your teeth to stay straight.

Question 11

Do you have payment plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have payment plans, and everyone qualifies without a credit check.

Question 12

Do I still need to go to the dentist during braces?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  It is an absolute requirement that you continue to make your regular appointments with your general dentist.  In fact, its often more important when you have braces because your teeth are more difficult to care for by yourself.

FAQs About Orthodontic Treatment