Have questions about our braces, Invisalign, or orthodontic services? We’ve gathered the most common questions to help you find the answers you need. Whether you’re new to orthodontics or looking for specific details, we are here to help.
During your initial visit to Indigo Orthodontics, we’ll perform a thorough clinical exam. This includes reviewing your medical and dental history, examining your teeth and bite, and providing an estimate for your orthodontic treatment timeline and costs.
Your first visit will last 30 to 60 minutes. We’ll start with a visual exam and talk about your goals and needs for teeth straightening. Depending on what we find, we might also recommend X-rays, impressions, or photos to get a full picture.
Upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth, or are bucked
Upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower teeth when biting together (deep bite)
Upper front teeth are behind or inside the lower front teeth (underbite)
The upper and lower front teeth do not touch when biting together (open bite)
Crowded or overlapped teeth
The center of the upper and lower teeth do not line up
Finger- or thumb-sucking habits which continue after six or seven years old
Difficulty chewing
Teeth wearing unevenly or excessively
The lower jaw shifts to one side or the other when biting together
Spaces between the teeth
We usually like to see children for their first visit between the ages of 6 and 8, which is when their six-year molars and front permanent teeth start to come in. The American Association of Orthodontics actually recommends all kids have their first orthodontic screening by age 7.
Yes. Many adults choose orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles or correct bite problems. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists notes that one in four orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. With the right plan, treatment can fit comfortably into a busy lifestyle, and it is never too late to enjoy the benefits of a healthier, more confident smile.
You have different options. There are traditional metal, clear, or ceramic braces. Also, removable clear aligners like Invisalign. Your orthodontist will help you pick the one that fits your smile, lifestyle, and what you feel most comfortable with.
Most patients visit every 4–8 weeks so we can check progress, make adjustments, and keep things on track. These visits are usually quick and are an important part of getting the best results in the shortest time possible. If you wear aligners, we may give you several sets at once, but we’ll still schedule regular check-ins to be sure everything’s going as planned.
Most cases take about 18 to 24 months, though the time varies depending on your individual needs and how your teeth respond. While simple cases might finish sooner, more complex ones can take longer. The American Association of Orthodontists states that treatment duration differs for each person, and your orthodontist will give you the most accurate timeframe based on your unique plan.
- A more attractive smile
- Reduced appearance-consciousness during critical development years
- Better function of the teeth
- Possible increase in self-confidence
- Increased ability to clean the teeth
- Improved force distribution and wear patterns of the teeth
- Better long-term health of teeth and gums
- Guide permanent teeth into more favorable positions
- Reduce the risk of injury to protruded front teeth
- Aids in optimizing other dental treatment
Yes. Once treatment is complete, retainers are essential for keeping teeth in their new positions. Most patients wear them full-time for the first six months, then at night to maintain their results. Your orthodontist will provide a personalized retainer schedule and care instructions to help your smile stay straight and healthy.
Teeth naturally shift over time, even if you have never had braces. It is part of the normal aging process. Wearing your retainer as directed is the best way to keep your teeth in their new positions and protect your smile for a lifetime.
Yes! We offer flexible payment plans that are designed to match your treatment schedule. This makes it easier to manage costs over time. Whether or not you have dental insurance, we will work with you to find a payment option that fits your budget so you can focus on your treatment, not the stress of payments.
If your insurance includes orthodontic coverage, it can lower your costs. Many plans have a lifetime orthodontic benefit separate from regular dental insurance. Since every policy is different, we will review your coverage and explain it clearly. Once treatment starts, we will file claims for you to help you get the most from your benefits.
Yes! We have special pricing for families with more than one patient in treatment. This can make braces affordable for anyone. Ask us for details during your consultation to see how this could benefit your family.
Yes. We can arrange secure automatic payments from your bank account or credit card, as well as online payment options, so keeping up with your orthodontist consultation plan is simple and stress-free.
