6 Common Questions to Ask an Orthodontic Specialist

An orthodontic consultation is a great opportunity to ask your orthodontic specialist any important questions that you may have. During the initial consultation, this one-on-one time allows you to better understand the process, ensure that you can afford the treatment and check that the orthodontist is the best option for you.

Preparing a list of questions to ask beforehand is a great way to prepare for your visit. You can even learn about their experience and history by doing research ahead of time. Moles & Ferri Orthodontic Specialists tell you upfront about their background and qualifications.

To get you started, here are a few common questions to ask your potential orthodontist.

1. What Options are Available?

Whether you are inquiring about treatment for yourself or your child, you might worry about braces showing in pictures or getting in the way of sports. Fortunately, traditional braces aren’t the only options available. There are less visible braces and clear aligners that may better suit your needs such as Invisalign. In addition, lingual braces offer the straightening benefits of braces, but without the aesthetic drawbacks.

2. How Long Will the Treatment Take?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, the average treatment takes about two years. However, it can take longer in some cases based on the individual needs of each patient. Be sure to ask the orthodontic specialist to provide an estimate of how long the treatment can potentially take.

Braces are just as much of a time investment as they are a monetary one. Therefore, the length of time will vary depending on how complex your situation is. The estimated time frame can also determine the overall cost of the treatment.

3. How Much Will it Cost?

The price of dental treatment depends on the severity of the patient’s problem. During your consultation, you will be able to discuss fees and payment options before treatment begins. In some cases, people opt for payment plans that make it easier to afford. Moles & Ferri Orthodontic Specialist offers several different payment plans to suit all budgets.

4. How Much Discomfort Can Be Expected?

Generally speaking, there isn’t a high amount of pain involved with braces. However, there is some discomfort that should be expected. As the teeth are shifting and moving around with each adjustment, you may need to take over-the-counter pain relief medicine or use an icepack. It’s best to ask the orthodontist what may hurt the most and what you can do to alleviate any pain.

5. What Foods Should Be Avoided?

It should be noted that your diet will likely change once you begin orthodontic treatment. Braces make it more difficult to enjoy certain types of food as they can get stuck in the wires or even break the brackets. A few common foods and drinks that should be avoided included:

  • Hard candy
  • Soda
  • Gum
  • Popcorn

An orthodontic specialist will provide you a list of foods that should be avoided to prevent complications during treatment.

6. What Should I Do If Something Breaks?

Accidents happen to everyone, so you may notice a loose bracket, bent wire, or any number of other complications at some point. It’s best to learn about what to do in these situations ahead of time so that you’re prepared when they do occur.

Have more questions about orthodontics for yourself or your child? Look no further than the professionals at Moles & Ferri Orthodontic Specialists. We provide complimentary examinations that set you up for optimal dental health moving forward. With locations in Milwaukee, Brookfield and Racine, we take pride in providing a full spectrum of orthodontic services. Contact us today!