A. We are an orthodontic office which means we specialize in the movement of teeth with braces and clear aligners. Regular cleanings and restorative work, such as fillings and dentures, are completed by your general dentist.
A. 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 additional and specialized training beyond dental school that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.
A. No, not likely. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
A. No patient is "too old" to wear braces! A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. Health and happiness are just as important to adults as it is in children/teens. Orthodontic treatment can increase your self-esteem at any age!
A. Overall treatment time depends on each patient's specific orthodontic problem(s). In general, treatment times range from 12 to 30 months. The average treatment time in our office is 18 months, although there is certainly a wide range depending on the case.
A. Appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs. Most patients in orthodontics will be seen every 4 to 10 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly. This can also vary if someone is treated with traditional braces versus clear aligner therapy.
A. Absolutely! We understand your schedule is busy, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. Most appointments take 20 to 30 minutes, however if there is a longer visit to be scheduled you will be made aware of this and can plan accordingly.
A. Everyone has a different threshold when it comes to pain tolerance. There will be some discomfort after each "adjustment" in our office, but how much that effects each patient will vary. After certain appointments, your teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, over-the-counter pain medications, such as Advil or Tylenol, will ease the discomfort.
A. Yes! We recommend that patients wear mouth guards while playing sports. Musicians will likely experience an adjustment period until they are comfortable playing undergoing orthodontic care.
A. As Dr. Jain says, "we certainly like straight teeth, but we like good looking straight teeth." Good oral health is important to orthodontic care and seeing your dentist routinely for a check-up and cleaning is vital to the process!
A. Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. We will also show you how to floss your teeth with braces, and we may provide a prescription for a special fluoride treatment, if necessary.
A. Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain our complete instructions and provide you with a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include ice, hard candy, and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid most repair appointments by carefully following our instructions!
A. Photos, a 3D scan, and an evaluation from the doctor, oh my! The initial exam visit in our office is very simple. Our treatment coordinator will take the patient back to obtain some basic dental information. This includes two x-rays, pictures of your teeth and smile, and a 3D scan of the teeth. The doctor will then come in to take a look at these records as well as the patient's mouth. Once all notes have been made, the doctor will check in. In order to accomplish all of this, we expect this first appointment to take an hour long. We appreciate you taking the time out of your schedule to make an appointment with one of our doctors and hear what they have to say.
Book your free consultation to discuss your needs and goals.
Our team will create a plan tailored to your unique smile.
Start your treatment and watch your confidence grow.
We’re proud to offer our services in three locations: Galesburg, Macomb, and Kewanee. Don’t hesitate to reach out for whatever you need!
Website by A-Team Digital Partners.
