Frequently Asked Questions

We will provide you with instructions and a list of foods to avoid when you get your braces. These foods include:

• ice
• hard candy
• raw vegetables and corn on the cob
• sticky foods like gum, caramel and taffy

Avoid emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions. Get a full list of foods--good and bad, listed by the American Dental Association.

The frequency of visits depends on the specific needs of each patient and how quickly the corrections progress. Most of our patients with braces will be seen every 6 to 8 weeks. However, if a particular situation justifies closer monitoring, visits will be scheduled accordingly. Younger patients kept under observation (without corrective appliances in their mouth) are seen every 9 to 18 months depending on their dental development.

Hey T. It all depends on how old you are, what’s going on with your teeth, and the type of treatment Dr. Connell and your family chose. Treatment time can be as short as six months, but it’s usually between 18 and 24 months

The initial consultation is free. We evaluate the teeth and gums, as well as the bite alignment. Then we decide if and when we should start a plan. There are lots of factors that indicate whether a treatment plan should be started immediately, or if we should wait a year or two as a child’s bite develops. Details like procedures and their relative cost and duration, as well as insurance and financing options, are all discussed at the initial consultation.

Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment (Early Interceptive Treatment) typically begins while the child has most of his or her baby teeth, and a few permanent teeth (usually between ages 7 and 10). The goal of Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment is to intercept moderate or severe orthodontic problems early so they can be reduced or eliminated. These orthodontic problems include:

• jaw bone problems
• cross bites
• developing crowding

Dr. Connell typically uses expanders, removable appliances, headgear and retainers during this phase. This approach takes advantage of the growth stage your child is in, changing the jaw structure to either make extra room or address discrepancies.

Braces are expensive. It's hard to put a price on a beautiful smile that you’ll keep for the rest of your life. However, we will work hard to create a plan for you that maximizes your insurance benefit and makes treatment as affordable as possible.

Braces are painful. There may be some minor discomfort and sensitivity directly after an adjustment, but the majority of the time you won't even notice the braces are there. And if you choose Invisalign, you won't even see them!

Braces are ugly. Modern advances have brought braces a long way. From customizable bands to the Invisalign system, braces can now be colorful or even invisible!

Braces needed only to straighten teeth. Orthodontics isn't just about pretty teeth. Improper bites aren't always obvious, but can negatively affect the way you chew and more. Getting your teeth and jawbone in the correct position will create harmony and better function.

Braces are for kids. There is no age limit for orthodontics. The nature of how your teeth move and shift  is the same in adults as it is in children. Most importantly, it's never too late to use a great smile.    

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child have a consultation by the age of 7. If applicable, early interceptive treatment (Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment) is capable of reducing the amount of major work later on. For most 7-year-olds, no orthodontic treatment is necessary. During the free consultation, we evaluate a child’s condition, and if necessary, we keep an eye on it as he or she grows.

Nope! No dental referral is needed to see Dr. Connell for your free initial consultation.