FIRST VISIT

Welcome!

On the first visit, we will have you fill out a little paperwork or you can fill it out before you come!

Diagnostic Records!*

This includes x-rays, some photos, and an impression or a scan which ever fits what you need best!

Consultation!

Dr. Lambert will then look at your teeth to evaluate the next steps that should be taken.

Treatment Plan!

Dr. Lambert will then review all of the records taken, discuss your smile goals and the best ways to get you there.

* While your office visit and consultation are complimentary, there may be diagnostic records fees associated with your orthodontic exam.

SMILE TRANSFORMATIONS

PATIENT FORMS

New Patient Forms

INFORMATION SHEETS

Spacers

Braces Care

Braces - Foods To Avoid

EMERGENCIES AND REPAIRS

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to solve many problems yourself temporarily until you can get to our office. If there is a loose piece that you can remove, put it in a plastic bag or envelope and bring it with you to your next appointment. If your braces are poking you, put soft wax on the piece that's sticking out. If the wire has slid to one side, you can pull it back to the other side with needle-nosed pliers, replacing it in the tube on the back tooth.

After alleviating your discomfort, it is very important that you still call our office to schedule a time to repair the problem. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in disruptions to your treatment plan.

General Soreness

When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. Stick to a soft diet until your teeth are comfortable when chewing. Irritated gums and other sore spots can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with warm salt-water. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in eight ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth. For the discomfort, take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Motrin (Advil) whichever you normally take for a headache or similar discomfort.

The lips, cheeks, and tongue may become irritated for one to two weeks as they learn a new posture and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this.

Loose Bracket

If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it if needed for comfort. If the bracket or band can be removed easily, place it in an envelope and save it to bring to your next appointment.

Loose Appliance

If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part.

Loose Wire

Using a pair of tweezers or needle-nosed pliers, try to put your wire back into place. If you cannot put the wire into a comfortable position, and covering the end with wax doesn't help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If the end of the wire is still sharp place wax on it.

Poking Wire

Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it so that it is no longer poking.

FAQ'S

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialty within the dental profession that is focused on the realignment of teeth in order to create healthy, aesthetically pleasing smiles. Orthodontists are trained for an additional 3 years after attending dental school.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Why should I get orthodontic treatment?

Aside from having an aesthetically pleasing smile, orthodontic treatment is necessary to create a healthy bite. With orthodontic treatment, oral hygiene will be improved which leads to long-term benefits.

How long will my treatment be?

Orthodontic treatment varies from patient to patient. While some patients may require two phases of treatment, others will only need one phase. Some may need very little treatment! For personalized recommendations, a consultation would be necessary to determine length of treatment by an orthodontist.

Why do I have to wear my retainer full time?

After the removal of braces, it is extremely important to wear your removable retainer full time until being told otherwise by your orthodontist. This will prevent shifting of teeth and maintain that beautiful smile that you waited for!

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

Orthodontic treatment is a long-term investment that is very important for your overall health. The cost of orthodontic treatment is based off of individual needs, as determined by your orthodontist in an initial consultation. For further, personalized cost of treatment it is important to schedule an consultation with an orthodontist.

Will my insurance cover orthodontic treatment?

Insurance coverage varies from office to office. If you are unsure if your insurance plan has orthodontic coverage, a phone call to your insurance company's customer service line would clarify what kind of coverage you have. Additionally, after scheduling an initial consultation, our office checks insurance benefits for each patient.

How early should I bring my child in for an evaluation?

It is important to see a general dentist for routine exams, where they may recommend an initial consultation with an orthodontist if they feel it is necessary. Regardless, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that patients be seen by an orthodontist by at least age 7. However, if a patient is seen at age 7 and does not need treatment right away, they may be placed on observation until ready for intervention.

What do I do about a broken bracket or appliance?

When a patient has a broken bracket or appliance, it is extremely important for the family to call their orthodontist's office and schedule a repair. Regularly scheduled appointments do not allot time for repairs, so if patients come in with broken brackets or appliances, they will have to be rescheduled for a later time.

Will I be sore after getting braces?

Actively putting on braces is a painless process. However, a patient may be sore for the next few days. However, it is a short-term adjustment period that can be eased through over the counter pain relievers.

Will I be able to resume activities and sports with my braces?

Absolutely! Orthodontic treatment would not interfere with sports or activities. The only change that needs to be made after initiation of orthodontic treatment would be to get a new, orthodontic friendly mouth guard for sports.

Do I have to continue routine exams with my general dentist?

Yes! It is more important than ever to routinely see your general dentist while having braces or other orthodontic appliances. This is because your general dentist and his/her team will be able to provide a more thorough cleaning than a patient would be able to give themselves at home.