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P&G Orthodontics - Frequently Asked Questions

Orthodontic Treatment for Children

Do you offer braces for children?

Yes. According to the American Association of Orthodontists and Pediatric Dentistry, every child must receive an orthodontic evaluation by Age 7.

What is Phase 1 treatment?

Some children need early intervention before all permanent teeth can erupt to address some specific challenges such as a narrow jaw or a habit. In such instances, the orthodontist will initiate a Phase orthodontic treatment to address the concern. The duration of this phase may depend upon the complexity.

My child had Phase 1 orthodontic treatment. Does he/she still need treatment again?

In most instances, after permanent teeth erupt, a second phase of orthodontic treatment may be necessary to establish a harmony in the overall position of the teeth.

Does my child need a palatal expander?

A palatal expander is a device that is placed on the roof the mouth to increase the width of a narrow upper jaw. This procedure can be very helpful to allow for more room to allow for permanent teeth to erupt.

Do braces hurt?

Orthodontic treatment results in some movement in teeth which causes inflammation and some discomfort. Every individual is different in their pain threshold. Most people experience no more than mild discomfort after receiving braces or aligners.

Are aligners as effective as braces?

Aligners (such as Invisalign) have come a long way. Many orthodontic cases can be effectively treated by aligners. There are some limitations for aligners but in general most cases can be treated by different types of braces or aligners. Reviewing this option with the orthodontist at the beginning of treatment would be a good idea.

What type of braces are better? Metal braces or clear braces?

Clear braces are nearly invisible or tooth colored. They function similar to metal braces.

Orthodontic Treatment for Adults

Do adults need orthodontic treatment?

Yes. Orthodontic treatment is often necessary to achieve an ideal fit of teeth in most individuals. Treatment can be offered at any age. The underlying medical and dental history will be taken into account in evaluating the best type of treatment for each individual.

Do braces hurt?

Orthodontic treatment results in some movement in teeth which causes inflammation and some discomfort. Every individual is different in their pain threshold. Most people experience no more than mild discomfort after receiving braces or aligners.

Are aligners as effective as braces?

Aligners (such as Invisalign) have come a long way. Many orthodontic cases can be effectively treated by aligners. There are some limitations for aligners but in general most cases can be treated by different types of braces or aligners. Reviewing this option with the orthodontist at the beginning of treatment would be a good idea.

What type of braces are better? Metal braces or clear braces?

Clear braces are nearly invisible or tooth colored. They function similar to metal braces.

Will I need retainers after orthodontic treatment?

Yes. Any time a tooth is moved, it needs to be retained in that position after the braces or aligners are removed. The type of retention and duration depends upon the case complexity.

Doctor Information

Dr. Bollu and Dr. Chittivelu are both American Board of Orthodontics Certified. What does this mean and why is this important?

All orthodontists must be licensed to practice, but at this time only 1 in 3 orthodontists have continued on to complete Board Certification. The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) certification process signifies a unique achievement—a significant step beyond the two to three years of advanced education required for a dentist to become a specialist in orthodontics. The process requires the orthodontist to demonstrate actual accomplishments in patient care with detailed case reports on the treatment provided for a broad range of patient problems. Board certification is a voluntary achievement that all orthodontists do not choose to pursue. In order to become board certified by the ABO, an individual orthodontist is thoroughly interviewed by a highly respected panel of examiners to demonstrate their orthodontic knowledge, clinical skills and judgment.

It is also important to note that the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is the only certifying board in the specialty that is recognized by the American Dental Association. The ABO was founded in 1929 and is the oldest specialty board in dentistry. The board’s purpose is to elevate the quality of orthodontic care for the public by promoting excellence through certification, education and professional collaboration.