FAQ | Flossmoor New Lenox IL | Orthodontic Associates, Ltd.

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1. Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
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2. Do I need a referral from my dentist before seeing the orthodontist?
No, you do not need a referral from your dentist in order to see the orthodontist. However, many of our patients are referred to us by their dentist and we will work closely with your dentist to ensure a quality result. You may call and schedule an appointment with our doctors yourself.
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3. What is orthodontics? Why should you choose an orthodontic specialist?
ORTHODONTICS is the specialty of dentistry that deals with problems caused by poor alignment of the teeth and jaws. This includes the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Corrective appliances such as braces are applied and controlled to bring the teeth, lips, and jaws into proper alignment to achieve healthy, functional bites and facial balance. Treatment means more than a beautiful smile; it can also aid the health of the teeth and gums.

An orthodontist is specially-trained and certified to diagnose and create personalized treatments for the many types of malocclusions (mismatched teeth). He must undergo two years of additional training after dental school. To become board eligible he must pass a comprehensive written examination and limit his practice exclusively to the treatment of orthodontic problems. Finally, after practicing for a minimum of five years, one may apply for board certification by the American Board of Orthodontics. This procedure includes presenting a series of case reports on many types of problems treated. These reports include before, after, and two years post-treatment records. After these conditions have been met, the members of the American Board of Orthodontics conduct a complete oral examination of the orthodontist regarding the cases treated, orthodontic care and recent orthodontic advances. If the board is satisfied, the orthodontist becomes certified as a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics.
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4. Why is orthodontic treatment important? Why Straighten Teeth? Why Braces?
Everyone appreciates the importance of a winning smile. It makes a pleasing appearance, promotes self-esteem, and is valuable to social and career success. Creating beautiful smiles is what orthodontics is all about. Today, orthodontic treatment is convenient and affordable, so that individuals from childhood through retirement can enjoy its important benefits. We offer a free initial examination. Orthodontics is important not only to a great smile and improved self-confidence, but to better dental health. By aligning teeth and improving the harmony of the lips and face, orthodontics can improve one's general attitude toward life. Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. Teeth in correct alignment are easier to clean, and that can make them more resistant to decay and less susceptible to gum disease and tooth loss. Alignment may also prevent tooth and jaw discomfort that can come from uneven wear. Chronic head, neck or jaw pain can also be caused by orthodontic problems. When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. They can lead to costly dental care in later years which is often greater than the cost of orthodontics today. By choosing to wear braces, you are taking a positive step in improving your overall dental health and comfort. More than 5 million people in the United States and Canada are in the care of an orthodontist and looking forward to a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. The obvious potential reward is straighter teeth that are less prone to decay and injury. But just as important is the improved self-confidence that a better smile can provide.
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5. What are the benefits of orthodontics?

A healthier more beautiful smile
Reduced appearance-consciousness during critical growth years
Better function and comfort with a proper bite
Increased self esteem and confidence
Increased ability to keep teeth clean
Improved force distribution and wear patterns on teeth
Guided facial growth for a more attractive face and profile
Better long term health of the teeth and gums
Reduce or eliminate the need for future jaw surgery
Guide the permanent teeth into a more favorable position
Reduce or eliminate the need to extract teeth
Better lip closure
Eliminate a child being picked on by others because of their teeth
Improved speech and swallowing
Aid in optimizing other dental treatments
Less strain on the jaw joints and muscles
Prevent premature loss of teeth and aging appearance
Children with pleasing appearance and teeth usually receive more attention in school

6. What causes dental and facial problems?
Malocclusions (when opposing teeth of the upper and lower jaws fit together improperly) are both inherited and acquired. Crowded teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, and general mouth and jaw features are examples of inherited problems. Acquired or local factors such as thumb or finger habits, tongue thrusting, airway constriction, decay or gum disease, trauma, and premature loss of baby teeth also contribute to poor tooth alignment and bad bites.
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7. Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile-it creates a healthier you.
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8. How do braces work? How are teeth moved?
Orthodontic appliances are made of stainless steel or clear, ceramic materials. In order to move teeth safely and with the minimum amount of discomfort, a gentle continuous pressure must be applied to the teeth over an extended period of time. With steel or ceramic braces, individual brackets are attached to each tooth with an adhesive that is strong, yet soft enough to allow removal of the braces without damage to the teeth, then orthodontic wires connect all the brackets together and provide the forces to move teeth. All corrective appliances have one aim, to use gentle pressure to move teeth carefully into proper alignment. During orthodontic treatment, regular adjustments are made to maintain the directional pressure necessary for proper tooth movement.

This is a great time to wear braces! You can choose the color of the ties that hold the wire in brackets. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients.
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9. Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult? What about adult orthodontics?
Many people think of orthodontics as "kid stuff", but this is not true, an increasing number of orthodontic patients are adults. In fact one out of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21 years of age. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. Orthodontic treatment can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel, and headaches. We offer a variety of treatments that are designed for adults like advanced technology, including more gentle wires, and clear, less visible braces. Our adult patients are benefiting from these new appliances. They are enjoying the health and appearance of a comfortable bite and a healthy and beautiful smile. Many adults are correcting problems that were never treated when they were children, and now can experience the satisfaction of a perfect smile. No patient is "too old" to wear braces!
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10. How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?
If you or your child can potentially benefit from orthodontic treatment, simply call our office or send us an e-mail. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our receptionist will request some basic information from you.
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11. What will I learn from the initial examination?
There are five essential questions that we will cover during the initial examination:

Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
What must be done to correct the problem?
Will any teeth need to be removed?
How long will the treatment take to complete?
How much will the treatment cost?

After your free initial examination, the doctor may recommend a complete set of diagnostic records be gathered, including a facial profile analysis. This information will enable our doctors to confirm your diagnosis, and develop a customized, individual treatment plan to achieve the best results.
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12. How long will it take to complete treatment?
Treatment time (time with braces on) typically ranges from one to three years depending greatly on the severity of the situation, the growth of the patient’s mouth and the patient's cooperation. Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to case completion may differ from the original estimate. The patient's diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or headgear is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months. You will discover that the active, honest, and friendly relationship that exists among our patients, parents, doctor, and staff creates the best opportunity for efficient, on-time results.
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13. How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?
It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined you. Orthodontic fees have risen at a rate significantly lower than the rise in other health care costs. Fees vary depending upon the severity of the problem and the length and method of treatment. We will determine and discuss fees with you on an individual and private basis. We offer many payment choices for our patients and will help you select as comfortable a plan as possible for you and your family. Some dental insurance plans also feature orthodontic benefits. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims.
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14. How often will I have appointments?
The frequency of your appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs and the treatment plan. Typically your will be on a rotation of 4-5 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
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15. Do you use recycled braces?
Absolutely not! It is our belief that each patient should be provided with their own braces to achieve the best orthodontic result possible.
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16. Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not "hurt." It is common that general soreness and tenderness occurs after each appointment and generally subsides two to four days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all!
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17. Do you give shots?
No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.
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18. Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.
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19. Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.
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20. What is expected of me during treatment?
Certain phases of treatment are impossible unless the patient diligently follows instructions, such as wearing elastics or other appliances. Frequent brushing and flossing are also critical. Improper oral hygiene may cause damage to the teeth and supporting structures (gums, lips, etc.). Breaking appointments will lengthen treatment time and possibly affect the results. We will schedule a progress report with both patient and/or responsible adult to discuss any patient cooperation issues.
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21. Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.
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22. How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?
Patients should brush their teeth at least five times each day - after each meal and before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss their teeth with braces and may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary.
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23. Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
Yes. We require that the teeth be examined and cleaned prior to the start of treatment, and recommend that you continue to be seen for regular check-ups during the entire orthodontic program.
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24. What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
Our first goal is to make each emergency patient comfortable. If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone. If you require an emergency appointment, we will set aside time for you. Please also see our Ortho First Aid on this site.
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25. Do you have invisible braces?
Yes, we do have braces that are barely visible. Ceramic braces are tooth colored, are difficult to see and are and excellent choice for most adults and some children.
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26. Do you have colored braces and rubber bands?
Yes, we do have colored braces and rubber bands at no additional charge, if you want them. Colored braces can make having braces more fun.
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27. Can wisdom teeth cause future crowding of my teeth?
Wisdom teeth (third molars) typical erupt in the mouth between the ages of 18 and 23. Not all patients have wisdom teeth, and while most do the ultimate effect of wisdom teeth on a patient's bite varies from case to case. We are often able to see wisdom teeth on a panoramic x-ray starting as early as age 10. With the aid of your general dentist, we will help you determine whether your wisdom teeth should be removed. In addition, wearing your retainer(s) may be of great value to help prevent future crowding.
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28. How will I know when my treatment is completed?
Once the Retention period is complete, you will be "dismissed" from our care at a post-treatment consultation. If you are unable to attend this consultation, please notify our staff. We do this a little differently, but we can settle on the wording later. Nice overall.
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29. Why are retainers needed after braces?
Retainers are designed to hold the teeth in their corrected positions after braces until the bone & ligaments remodel to the new tooth position.
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30. How often do I need to wear my retainer(s)?
Retention (the part of treatment after braces) involves the wearing of retainers, either every night or full time depending on the type of treatment. A retainer may either be a clear plastic retainer or a more traditional acrylic retainer. We will, of course, give you complete instructions on the wearing and cleaning of your retainer(s). After active treatment has ended, we encourage our patients to wear their retainers every single night for as long as possible (forever is great!!!). Those patients who don't wear their retainers may find they need additional orthodontic treatment in the future because their teeth may shift and alter the smile we worked so hard to achieve. If Post-Retention patients notice changes in their bite, they should call us immediately and we will give them instructions on how to proceed.
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For Kids Only
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1. When is the best time to begin orthodontics? When should I begin treatment?
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. By this age their first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in, and crossbites, crowding and other problems can be evaluated.

When treatment is begun early, certain techniques provide significant benefits for patients seven to ten years old. The orthodontist can guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. Treatment during these growth stages can achieve results not possible once face and jaw structures have finished growing. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.

Full orthodontic treatment is generally started when most of the permanent teeth are in place, usually at ages eleven or twelve. The best time to start treatment in your case will be discussed with you at your free initial examination. We have found that by starting orthodontics at the right time we can achieve the best results. You can be sure that our doctors will always answer this important question with your child's best interests in mind.
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2. Should I wait until all the permanent teeth are in before seeing the orthodontist?
No, many tooth alignment or jaw growth problems can be detected by age 7. Some of these problems are best treated early, avoiding a more serious problem later.
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3. What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
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4. Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for orthodontic screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
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5. What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
Preserving space for unerupted teeth
Reducing the need for tooth removal
Reducing treatment time with braces

6. Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
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7. Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments after school. We try to keep school appointments to a minimum and will make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.
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8. Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
Yes. There is no reason to miss school because of an orthodontic appointment.
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9. Can I still play sports?
Yes, you can play sports with the braces on. You may need to wear a special mouth guard to protect your lips and teeth just as you would without braces. Ask us and we will be happy to provide you with an athletic mouthpiece when your braces are placed at no additional charge.
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10. Can I play a musical instrument with braces?
Yes, you can play the instrument of your choice with braces on your teeth. It may take a few days getting used to playing with the braces on. In addition, brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort.
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11. Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that patient's growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.
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12. What is Phase One (early) Treatment?
Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 9-12 months. The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem and self-image.
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13. Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called the "resting period," during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations. However, if patient cooperation is good during Phase One treatment, often the treatment time with full braces is significantly shorter than in a typical patient.
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14. Will my child need an expander?
At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander.
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