Braces for kids in Forest Hill, Maryland

Who Provides Braces in Forest Hill?

Your dentist or orthodontist in Forest Hill is the best source for any type of orthodontic appliance. Getting them installed is an important decision, so be sure to select a dentist you're comfortable with and one that instills confidence. If you'd like an estimate of your braces cost, or if you have any questions about your options or the procedure, call us, and we'll be happy to answer all your questions.

What Are My Choices for Braces For My Child?

At one point, traditional wire-and-bracket metal braces were the only choice for those who needed this type of orthodontic work. Now, however, due to advances in the field, ceramic braces, clear braces, and invisible braces are also available. Your dentist will recommend the best type for your needs after talking with you to determine your preferences and your goals.

What Happens During the Braces Installation Procedure?

When you come to our Forest Hill office for your initial consultation, we'll perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, and we'll probably have some questions for you. Then, we'll provide you with a personalized treatment plan that will include the length of time your procedure will take and the types of dental appliances that will be best for your needs. Sometimes, we may need to use more than one treatment method to achieve our mutual goals. This depends on the degree of correction you need as well as some other factors. Your dentist will discuss this with you during your initial consultation.

You can expect the following approximate procedure when you come to our office for your braces installation. The procedure may vary slightly depending on the type of braces you're getting, but it's usually similar to the following:

1. First, we'll clean and dry your mouth so that the bonding glue will have a good hold.
2. The next step is to apply bonding glue to your teeth.
3. Next, we'll attach the brackets.
4. Then, we'll place the archwires into the brackets.
5. Finally, the archwires will be secured with elastic bands.

On occasion, patients may inadvertently taste the glue. It has an unpleasant taste, but it's harmless, so don't worry. Just be prepared for the taste.

How Much Do Braces For Kids Cost?

As with any dental procedure, your ultimate cost will be unique to you and will depend on several factors, including:

• The area in which you live is a factor because the cost of living is higher in some areas.
• The style you select. Metal styles are usually the least expensive, and some of the invisible styles are the most expensive.
• The degree of correction required is another factor, since that will determine the number of office visits you'll need and will affect the length of time needed to complete the procedure.
• Your insurance coverage, if any, plays a major role in your final cost.

For our patients who have dental insurance, we recommend that you check with your provider before your first visit. Ask them about your coverage and limits and any exclusions that you might have. Bring this information with you when you come in, and we'll be able to quote you an accurate price for your orthodontic procedure.

How Many Office Visits Does It Take to Install Braces?

Usually, they can be installed in one office visit that will last between one to two hours. You may experience some brief soreness or discomfort, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and should dissipate within a week. If it doesn't, or if your pain is intense, then call our office. Typically, our patients wear their braces for one to two years, and then they wear a retainer at night, but your dentist will advise you of the duration of your treatment and whether you'll need a retainer or not.

How Long Will I Need to Wear a Retainer Afterward?

It will take about an hour to remove your braces, and then your dentist will advise you whether you'll need to wear a retainer or not. Retainers are typically worn for a year or up to several years, and they prevent your teeth from reverting to the former misalignment. Retainers are worn only at night, though, not during the day.

If you're interested in getting your teeth straightened, then call Main Street Children's Dentistry and Orthodontics of Forest Hill at (410) 885-4177 and schedule an appointment. Our office staff is skilled and experienced in the Forest Hill area for orthodontic procedures. We'd love to help you gain beautifully straight, even teeth that will make you happy to smile.

Call us today. You'll be glad you made the call.