Orthodontic FAQ
Dr. James Kendrick, a prominent orthodontist serving Kissimmee, St. Cloud, and nearby areas, specializes in TMJ, Invisalign, and treatments for both children and adults. Our practice is committed to providing innovative and high-quality care, beginning with our state-of-the-art office environment. Explore the frequently asked questions below to learn more about our services.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and begin with a consultation. We look forward to assisting you.
Does my dentist have to refer me for an appointment with an orthodontist?
No, it isn’t. While many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, many others proactively schedule examinations themselves.
What is the recommended age for my first visit with an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this time, several permanent teeth have typically erupted in most children, enabling us to effectively evaluate their orthodontic condition.
Do my teeth straighten out as they grow?
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow older. In fact, in most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the available space for the front teeth tends to decrease with age.
How do I set up my first exam?
If you or your child may benefit from orthodontic treatment, please contact our office by phone or fillimg out the online form on our contact us page. We will gladly schedule an appointment for you. When you call to arrange your visit, our front office staff will inquire about some basic information to assist with scheduling.
Explain my initial examination?
During the initial examination, we will address any and all questions. Here are what many people ask:
- Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
- What steps are necessary to correct the problem?
- Will any teeth need to be removed as part of the treatment?
- How long will the treatment take to complete?
- What are the anticipated costs associated with the treatment?
These questions are crucial for understanding your orthodontic needs and planning your treatment effectively.
What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
Upon arriving, each patient and parent will be seen by the Treatment Coordinator and Dr. Kendrick who will discuss the details of your smile journey. We will take the necessary photographs to allow us to make a proper diagnosis. The doctor will then complete a brief, but thorough, exam.
Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
Dr. Kendrick has a very conservative approach; however, removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. Thankfully, because of the new advanced technology that we use, removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.
How long will it take to complete treatment?
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. We will cover the exact cost and financial options during the initial examination. We have many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims.
How often will I have appointments?
Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?
Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. Longer appointments to place, repair or remove braces will be scheduled during the quieter morning hours.
However, because most appointments are scheduled six to ten weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments. We will, always, make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.
Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Do braces hurt?
Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
Can I still play sports?
Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.
Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?
What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
What is Phase One (early) treatment?
Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. The Orthopedic or Phase One treatment lasts about 12-21 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.
Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
Will my child need an expander?
Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?
Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.
What types of braces do you offer?
What is Invisalign and do you offer it?
Do you offer adult orthodontic treatment?
How do I know if I need braces or aligners?
Every person’s path to a perfect smile and bite is unique, that’s why the best way to determine the right treatment for you is through a comprehensive consultation with a board certified orthodontist.
What age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7. In some cases like if your child has crowding, snores, breathes through their mouth, sucks their thumb or has teeth at risk of injury you may need to visit an orthodontist as early as 4 or 5 years old.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our office or filling out the online appointment form on our website.
Do you accept insurance?
What are the payment options for orthodontic treatment?
We never want finances to get in the way of receiving proper orthodontic care. We offer interest-free in house financing, flexible payment plans and discounts for upfront payments along with other solutions.
What is orthodontic relapse?
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
What are lingual braces?
How often should I visit the orthodontist during treatment?
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Foods to avoid with braces include anything hard, sticky or chewy that may damage your braces or cause them to come loose.
Do braces hurt?
What is accelerated orthodontics?
How do I care for my braces?
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
While both are dental professionals, an orthodontist specializes in correcting bites, occlusion, and straightening teeth. A board certified orthodontist, attends several years of Orthodontic residency to learn the proper technique to move teeth safely and effectively.
Do you offer emergency orthodontic care?
Yes! We offer emergency care for issues like pain or broken wires, etc.