FAQs

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is one of the 9 specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. It is the branch of dentistry aimed at producing ideal tooth alignment for function and aesthetics. It is important to note that Orthodontics takes into consideration more than just your teeth. We also look at facial balance, soft tissue profile, jaw relationship, and airway considerations. According to the American Dental Association, Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and correction of malocclusion, as well as neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of the developing or mature orofacial structures.
 

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed an accredited residency program. We have undergone an additional 2-3 years of full-time post-graduate training beyond the normal 4 years of dental school. This is over 7,000 hours of specialty training. Orthodontists have elected to dedicate their practice solely to the practice of orthodontics.

It is important to note that all orthodontist are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists, despite the fact that they may offer orthodontic services.
 

Is a referral needed to see an orthodontist?

No! While it is common practice for dentists to refer their patients to our practice, a referral is not needed to schedule a consultation.

We do encourage all of our patients to maintain regular visits with your dentist for exams and cleanings during orthodontic treatment. We will communicate and work closely with your dentist to help you achieve optimal oral health and a smile that will last a lifetime!
 

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, it is recommended to have your child see an orthodontist by age 7. Often times, no treatment is indicated and we will monitor the growth and development of your child at no cost.

Orthodontics in children can be heavily dependent on growth. In certain circumstances, treatment is most efficient and predictable during a given time frame of your child's development.  Unfortunately when children are seen for the first time at a later age, it may already be too late to redirect or modify jaw growth, or to create more room for teeth as they grow through the gums into the mouth.

From our perspective, it is always better to see a patient too young than too late.
 

Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

No! An ever-increasing number of adults are seeking orthodontic treatment. If the teeth, gums and supporting bone are healthy, orthodontic treatment can be completed at any age.

The impact of orthodontic treatment can be life changing. We see transformations and improvements in oral health, confidence, career and relationships on a daily basis.
 

But I do not want metal braces...

We have clear solutions for you! (Do you see what we did there?!?) Ceramic braces are the aesthetic alternative to traditional metal braces. We offer 3M Clarity Advanced ceramic brackets. Clear aligner therapy (i.e. Invisalign) may also be the clear choice for your orthodontic needs! Contact us now to schedule your consultation.
 

What do braces cost?

At Wnek Family Orthodontics, we are proud to offer complimentary consultations. Orthodontic treatment is highly variable and dependent on the individual needs of our patients. The best way to determine the fee for your individual needs is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Joe.

The complexity of the treatment and type of treatment selected are factors that will be considered and explained to you.
For the most part, our treatment fees are comprehensive in nature. This means that they will cover all of your visits (typically every 6-8 weeks), as well as upper and lower removable retainers as required by your treatment . We follow our patients during the retention phase for retainer checks for about 2 years. Your retainer-check appointments are included in your initial fee.

Charges that may not be included in our fees include:

• Replacement retainers due to wear & tear, loss or breakage.
• Bonded retainers.
• Occlusal nightguards
• Tooth whitening
• Adjunct services from other dental professionals, including CBCT (3-D x-rays), exposure of impacted teeth, extraction of teeth, placement of TADs/mini-implants, corticotomies for accelerated tooth movement.