Frequently Asked Questions about The Orthodontic Process
How do I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic consultation? Call our office to schedule a time for Dr. Tardy to complete an oral examination and discuss your dental concerns. During this visit, you will be given information on treatment needs, treatment options and financial estimates.
Do I need a referral from a family dentist to be seen by Dr. Tardy? No. A referral is not required. If you have an orthodontic concern we would be glad to meet with you. While many of our patients are referred to us by dental or health care professionals, others are referred by current patients, families and friends.
How often will I have an appointment once treatment begins? This will depend on Dr. Tardy's treatment plan for your orthodontic care. Once treatment begins, appointments are usually scheduled at 4 to 8 week intervals for optimal tooth movement and bone development.
What is the New Patient Consultation Visit and how much does it cost? Your first visit will consist of a consultation and panoramic x-ray. Dr. Tardy will examine you teeth, hear your concerns and discuss treatment options. You will also receive financial information for the recommended treatment. There is no fee for the this initial consultation. There is a fee for records if you decide to begin treatment during your first visit.
What are Records? Diagnostic records consist of:
Digital images of your teeth and face,
Dental impressions to fabricate plaster models of your teeth,
Panoramic x-ray,
Cephalometric x-ray,
Additional test as needed based on your dental needs.
How long does it take to work? There are a number of factors that determine the length of treatment. Dr. Tardy will consider the severity of the problem being corrected and give you an estimate of the duration of treatment to achieve desired results.
Will it Hurt? Very few patients have difficulty with pain during orthodontic treatment. We will make adjustments to your appliances on a regular basis. After an adjustment, patients may experience soreness for about 24 to 48 hours.
Can I chew gum? Yes. Certain types of sugar-free gum are allowed with braces. However, there are certain things, like hard candy or chewing ice, that might damage your brackets and prolong treatment.
Will I have to Wear a Retainer? Most patients usually wear a retainer at the completion of treatment to "retain" the teeth in their new positions.
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