FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Orthodontists are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school, go on to additional full-time university-based education in an accredited orthodontic residency program supervised by orthodontists. That training lasts at least two to three academic years and sometimes more. By learning about tooth movement (orthodontics) and guidance of facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontists are the uniquely educated experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and align jaws.

Orthodontists diagnose, prevent, and treat dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists limit their practices to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, treating a wide variety of malocclusions (misaligned teeth and/or jaws).

Dr. Orup is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). To be a member of the AAO, dentists must have at least two to three years of postdoctoral, advanced specialty education in orthodontics in a university-based program accredited by the American Dental Association. Specialty education includes the study of subjects in biomedical, behavioral, and basic sciences; oral biology; and biomechanics.

Only orthodontists may be members of the AAO.

In order for a portion of your treatment to be covered by insurance, you must have dental insurance that includes orthodontic services. Most orthodontic policies cover $1,000 to $2,500 in treatment fees per child under 18. In some cases, adults are covered also.

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending upon the complexity of treatment as well as the appliances utilized. Dr. Orup will discuss the fee for your particular case during the consultation appointment, when he will review your treatment plan and answer any questions you might have.

Some discomfort is to be expected, especially after the initiation of orthodontic treatment or after your routine adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually quite effective in diminishing any discomfort.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children undergo an orthodontic examination at or around age 7. In some cases, early intervention may be appropriate. For most children, however, commencement of treatment may be appropriate when the majority of the permanent teeth have emerged.

Adults of any age are candidates for treatment, provided their gum tissue and supporting bone are healthy.

Yes, you can play most sports safely if you wear a mouth guard.

The duration of orthodontic treatment can range from about 18 to 30 months, depending on several factors: the complexity of your case, your body’s response to treatment, the appliances utilized, and how well you are able to cooperate in your care.

Orthodontic care requires a team approach in which the family, the dentist, the orthodontist, and the patient play key roles that affect the length of treatment and the quality of the result.