Orthodontic FAQs

Aah! There’s so much information out there about orthodontics! If only someone would write a simple orthodontic FAQ. Innovative Orthodontics has what you need! We are your dedicated partners in perfecting smiles throughout Savannah, Rincon, and Pooler. Our expert orthodontists, Dr. Waters and Dr. Clayton, are excited to be a part of your oral health journey. Just as our name suggests, we bring innovation to the field of orthodontics, which is more than just straightening teeth. It’s about setting the stage for a lifetime of confident smiles and optimal oral health. Let’s address some of the most common questions we hear. 

Isn’t Orthodontics Just “Fancy Dentistry?” 

If you’re scratching your head over what orthodontics entails, rest assured you’re not the only one. At its core, orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that concentrates on diagnosing “behind-the-scenes” (or maybe “under-the-gums”) problems with teeth. Although orthodontics may seem complex, it’s essentially about ensuring your (or your child’s) teeth develop straight and properly aligned.

Why is it necessary for children? Early intervention in orthodontics can help prevent more serious problems later on, such as challenges in biting, chewing, or even speaking. But it goes beyond just physical advantages – it’s also about improving self-confidence. With a set of straight teeth and a radiant smile, your child can build confidence, and we at Innovative Orthodontics are committed to making that a reality.

What Makes Someone An Orthodontist?

You might be wondering, “Who exactly is an orthodontist?” Well, let’s break it down. Think of an orthodontist as a dental super-specialist. They’re a dentist who decided to take their expertise a step further. After completing their regular dental training, they ventured into an additional two to three years of specialized education focusing solely on orthodontics. 

That’s right! They spent that extra time learning the ins and outs of diagnosing, preventing, and correcting teeth and jaws. This means they have the know-how to ensure your or your child’s teeth are straight and functioning correctly for a healthy, happy smile. In short, orthodontists like Dr. Waters and Dr. Clayton are the superheroes of dental alignment, working tirelessly to save the day, one smile at a time!

Is The First Visit Scary? 

At Innovative Orthodontics, we strive to make your child’s first visit a breeze. Walking into an orthodontic office for the first time can be nerve-racking for youngsters. Our goal is to offer a stress-free and friendly environment with a team ready to answer any questions your kiddo might have. 

In the initial visit, we typically start with a comprehensive oral examination. This helps us understand your child’s unique needs. We may take X-rays or mold your child’s teeth if needed. These methods provide an in-depth look into your child’s dental and jaw development. Rest assured; we take extra care to ensure these procedures are as comfortable as possible. Remember, we intend to make your child’s journey to a healthy smile enjoyable!

Orthodontic FAQs

At What Age Should My Kids Start Treatment?

Determining the right time for your child’s first orthodontist visit can seem tricky. However, the American Association of Orthodontists (along with our doctors) recommends a check-up by age 7. Even though your child’s teeth might appear straight, there could be underlying issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Aside from age, watch for signs that your child may need an orthodontic check-up. These could include difficulty chewing or biting, thumb sucking beyond age 5, crowded or misplaced teeth, or jaws that pop or shift. At Innovative Orthodontics, we help guide your child’s teeth to a future of dazzling smiles.

Innovative Orthodontic Options Just For You

Here at Innovative Orthodontics, we’re all about bringing smiles to life! We know that each child has unique needs and preferences, so we offer a wide array of orthodontic treatments to ensure they’re comfortable and beaming with confidence throughout their orthodontic journey.

First, let’s talk about our metal braces. You might remember these from childhood – but we promise they’ve gotten a significant upgrade! These sturdy, reliable classics are perfect for tackling various orthodontic challenges. Plus, they’re more comfortable and sleeker than ever before!

Next, there’s Invisalign. Picture this: a series of clear, custom-made aligners for your child’s teeth. These bad boys are nearly invisible and can be taken out for eating, brushing, and even for those selfies! They’re ideal for the kid who prefers a subtler approach to orthodontic treatment.

Have you heard about our clear braces? Sometimes we call them “ceramic” braces – they’re like the secret agents of orthodontic treatments! Made from clear or tooth-colored ceramic, these braces blend seamlessly with your child’s teeth, making them less noticeable while delivering brilliant results.

But we don’t stop there! At Innovative Orthodontics, we also offer retainers to maintain that perfect smile post-braces and teeth whitening treatments to add a bit of sparkle.

How Pricey Is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your child’s long-term health and self-confidence, and we at Innovative Orthodontics believe that finances should not stand in the way of this essential care.

While it’s difficult to provide exact cost estimates due to each patient’s unique needs, we intend to make treatments affordable. The cost will depend on the complexity of the case and the type of orthodontic treatment chosen. 

Budget considerations are significant, so we proudly offer various financing options to suit different financial situations. We’ll work with you to design a payment plan that comfortably fits your budget, and we can help maximize your insurance benefits too.

Orthodontic care is an essential step on your child’s journey to a shinier, happier smile, and we’re committed to making that journey as accessible as possible for all families.

Orthodontic FAQs

Get Innovative With Your Orthodontic Care

With Innovative Orthodontics‘ commitment to novel technology, professional excellence, and personalized care, we’re confident that your child’s journey to a healthier, happier smile will be an enjoyable experience. Our locations in Savannah, Rincon, and Pooler have everything you need for a brighter smile and a more fulfilling life. Ready to start the journey toward a lifetime of radiant smiles? Head here to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Waters or Dr. Clayton today! Let’s explore together how we can make the smile of your dreams a reality.