Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Dr. McDonough is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great time to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens.

About one in every five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any age is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

• ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
• Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask Dr. Aaron or your family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
• If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and remember to keep the retainer safe in its container so it does not get lost or broken.
• Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by our office. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
• During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, and can cause more plaque and potential cavities.
• Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).
• Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.

Braces are used by orthodontists to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:

• Clear braces
• Invisible braces
• Traditional metal braces

The amount of time spent in braces will vary, depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can last anywhere from six to 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.

Braces do not often hurt, though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.

With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces.

You should also floss daily to get between your braces where your brush isn’t able to reach. Dr. McDonough can show you how to brush and floss properly once your braces are placed.

Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. We will work closely with your dentist to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy while you’re wearing braces.

Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.

Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all the information you need.

All patients or parents are ultimately responsible for the entire amount of their treatment fee. Our office is dedicated to providing a positive orthodontic experience for every patient.  That’s why we’re happy to guide you every step of the way through orthodontic insurance.  This gives all of us something to smile about! There are many different types of dental insurance plans, with various types of coverage. Orthodontic insurance can be very complex, and sometimes difficult for patients or parents to fully understand the benefits to which they’re entitled. We will work with you to help you receive the reimbursement you deserve.

Payment in Full
When an account is paid in full at the time of initial banding, or within 60 days after treatment commences there will be a bookkeeping courtesy discount given when paid by cash, check, or credit card.

Office Payment Plan
When treatment begins, an initial banding fee of $1,000 or 1/3 of the total treatment fee (whichever is less) is the down payment. The balance of the treatment fee is placed on an interest free monthly installment plan. The monthly payment can be set to automatically pay from a debit or credit card if desired. Payments are due anytime from the 1st of the month through the 25th day of the month. Finance charges are imposed on balances not paid within sixty (60) days of the due date.

Co-Payments and Payment Plans
Since orthodontic insurance covers a portion of the total fee, our office will, in good faith, “extend an initial credit” to each patient or parent in the amount that we estimate your primary insurance plan will pay toward treatment.

We offer discounts for patient’s family members continuing treatment in our office.