Frequently Asked Questions
It’s natural to have a lot of questions about your upcoming orthodontic treatment. Here are a few of the most common ones our patients ask. If you have a question that isn’t here, call us and we’d be happy to answer your questions personally.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s natural to have a lot of questions about your upcoming orthodontic treatment. Here are a few of the most common ones our patients ask. If you have a question that isn’t here, call us and we’d be happy to answer your questions personally.
No! If your teeth are healthy, age doesn’t matter. Over 25% of our orthodontic patients are adults and that number is growing every day. There are many innovative options available today for adults – including some that are virtually invisible!
There is no magic number. Treatment depends on each individual but early screening allows us to determine when the patient should be treated for the optimal results – including the least amount of time and at the lowest cost. Certain patients benefit from early intervention (ages 7-11) while full orthodontic treatment with traditional braces typically begins after all the permanent teeth are in place (ages 12-13.).
This is simply another name for orthodontic treatment that occurs once the permanent teeth have erupted. It is most commonly used when early treatment was not performed.
No! Only certain individuals require early intervention. Phase I or Interceptive Treatment usually starts while the child has most of their baby teeth and a few permanent front teeth – typically around age seven. The goal of Phase I is to intercept a moderate or severe problem early including skeletal dysplasias, crossbites and crowding. Treating these issues early can prevent larger problems later and reduce the need for surgery or extractions down the road, resulting in better long-term results. Phase II Treatment typically begins around 12-13, when the permanent teeth have erupted.
This isn’t recommended. Phase I treatment means your child has a difficult problem that requires immediate attention. If no orthodontic action is taken, treatment options become limited, more difficult and may lead to extractions, oral surgery and increased costs. If we are recommending Phase I it is because it is in your child’s best interests to have the treatment early.
The length of treatment varies by individual and depends on the severity of the problem, your cooperation, the degree of movement possible and successive visits (every 6-8 weeks) but typically braces are worn for anywhere from 6 to 30 months.
Patient Testimonials
Don’t Take Our Word For It – See Why Our Patients Say we’re “The Baum” at Baum Orthodontics:
“I will be bringing all of my kids here. What an amazing place. Super awesome staff that is always smiling and always friendly. Dr. Baum really cares about everyone that walks through his door.”
“I love love love this place! Dr Baum is amazing… He is always in a good mood and ready to help. From the initial consultation… to ensuring patient satisfaction, they are truly the best! Thank you Dr Baum and team!!!”
“Dr. Baum’s office is the bomb…literally. The office is very fun and engaging for kids and teens like me! Dr.Baum never ceases to amaze me, so keep doing what you guys are doing.”
“Wow. What an experience! Love everything about Dr. Baum and his amazing staff! It actually makes the process of getting braces super fun and something to look forward to! And the point system is super cool (second to the candy jars of course). ”