Here you will be able to find answers to some of the most often asked questions.
What is Orthodontics?
What is an orthodontist?
Who should wear braces?
When should I visit the Orthodontist?
How long will my orthodontic treatment
last?
What can I expect on my first visit?
What kind of braces are available?
How much do braces cost?
Do
braces hurt?
Will braces affect playing sports?
Why are retainers so important?
Where can I learn more?
Q:
What is Orthodontics? Top
| A: As an Orthodontist, my job is to straighten any irregularities in the alignment of your teeth. The idea is to correct your bite and keep your teeth healthy. A major benefit of our work is that we improve your smile and profile. My skill in straightening your teeth can result in a positive self image and increased self confidence. |
Q:
What is an orthodontist? Top
A: An orthodontist is a dentist who has attended a
specialty education program for a continual training period of 2-3 years.
All members of the American Association of Orthodontists have received
the appropriate training.
Q:
Who should wear braces? Top
A: Braces are worn by both children and adults, not
only to improve the attractiveness of your smile, but also because braces
correct improper alignment of teeth that can lead to gum disease and early
tooth loss. Properly aligned teeth also make it easier to chew all types
of food and eliminate the headaches and pain caused by uneven chewing.
Q:
When should I visit the Orthodontist? Top
 |
A: Some orthodontic corrections need to be made early (3 to 5 years of age), but ordinarily, children should be checked by an orthodontist at the time permanent teeth begin to erupt, to detect any deficiencies in the child's teeth formation; this is usually at 8-10 years of age. Adults should visit the orthodontist to improve the appearance of their smile and their overall dental health. It's never too late to have a beautiful smile! |
Q:
How long will my orthodontic treatment last? Top
A:
We expect your treatment to last from 18 to 30 months, though this will
vary depending on your individual case. Your cooperation in keeping scheduled
orthodontic appointments, maintaining proper hygiene, and taking care
of your braces may allow us to finish your orthodontic treatment early.
Q:
What can I expect on my first visit? Top
 |
A: Your initial visit will give you an opportunity to meet the doctor and our knowledgeable staff, who will answer any questions. They will give you a complimentary clinical examination to determine a course of treatment and an estimate of the treatment duration and fee. If we find that treatment is necessary, we will take the required x-rays, and a convenient appointment will be made for your fitting. |
Q:
What kind of braces are available? Top
A:
In the past, there was only one type of braces available, and it wasn't
designed for looks. Modern technology gives you choices for braces, including
traditional stainless steel braces, clear ceramic braces, and the latest
in orthodontic technology, Invisalign. For more information on Invisalign,
please check their website, at http://www.invisalign.com/.
Q:
How much do braces cost? Top
A: Orthodontic fees depend on the complexity of the
case, the age of the patient, the type of appliances used, and the estimated
length of treatment. Since every case is different, a visit to our office
for a complimentary examination will allow us to give you an idea of the
fee.
Q:
Do braces hurt? Top
A: There have been some fantastic advances in the
way we do things now in orthodontics to make treatment more comfortable
for our patients. These include smaller, smoother brackets, and gentler
wires which provide a continuous small force over a long period of time
rather than a strong force for only a short period. Typically there is
some discomfort two to three days after each adjustment that over-the-counter
pain relievers can take care of.
Q:
Will braces affect playing sports? Top
A:
You should be able to play just about any sport or activity. Although
we do highly recommend wearing a mouth guard in contact sports or any
sport where there is a chance you can get hit in the face.
Q:
Why are retainers so important? Top
A: Retainers help to retain
your teeth in the proper position at the completion of treatment. If they
are not worn as instructed, your teeth will move, or tend to relapse.
Retainers are EXTREMELY important right after the braces are removed while
the teeth stabilize.
Q:
Where can I learn more? Top
A:
You can contact us at
John
M. Burnheimer, DMD, MS
241 Schoolhouse Road
Johnstown, PA 15904
(814) 266-1900
You can also visit the following web sites for even more information...
John M. Burnheimer, DMD, MS - 241 Schoolhouse Road - Johnstown, PA 15904 - (814) 266-1900