Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Care
Have questions about braces, Invisalign®, cost, or your child’s first visit? You’re in the right place. Below are straightforward answers to the questions Decatur and Hartselle families ask us most - and if you don’t see yours, just call us at (256) 355-5255 or request a free consultation.
Getting Started
Does my family dentist need to schedule my orthodontic appointment?
No. While many patients come to us on a dentist’s referral, plenty schedule on their own - both are welcome. You don’t need a referral to book a free consultation.
At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening by age 7. By then, enough permanent teeth have come in for us to spot developing issues early - even if treatment won’t start for years. Learn more on our early treatment page.
Will my teeth straighten out on their own as I grow?
Generally, no. The space available for the front teeth doesn’t increase with age - in fact, once the permanent molars come in, that space often decreases. Crowding and alignment problems typically need orthodontic treatment to correct.
How do I schedule my first exam?
Call either office, or complete our online appointment request. Our friendly front-office team will gather a little information and find a convenient time.
What happens at the first examination?
We’ll welcome you, take any needed photos and X-rays, and the orthodontist will examine your teeth, bite, and jaw to make an accurate diagnosis. See our First Visit page for the full walkthrough.
What will I learn at that first visit?
We’ll answer the five key questions: Is there an orthodontic problem, and what is it? What’s needed to correct it? Will any teeth need to be removed? How long will treatment take? And what will it cost?
Cost & Insurance
What does orthodontic treatment cost, and can I pay monthly?
Your exact cost depends on the type of treatment and how much correction your smile needs, so we give you a personalized quote at your free first visit - no guessing. To make it affordable, we offer no-interest, in-house payment plans starting around $120 a month, often with little or no down payment. See our financing and insurance page for all the details.
Do you accept my insurance?
We’re in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama and Delta Dental Premier, and we work with many other plans too. Many policies include a separate lifetime orthodontic benefit on top of your regular dental coverage. We’ll review your specific plan, estimate your coverage, and file your claims for you - just bring your insurance card. More on our financing and insurance page.
During Treatment
How long does treatment take?
It varies by case, but most treatment takes about 12 to 24 months - some patients finish sooner, and complex cases take longer. We’ll give you a specific estimate for your smile at your consultation.
Will I need to have teeth extracted?
Sometimes, but less often than in the past. Modern techniques let us minimize extractions while still achieving a healthy bite and balanced profile. We’ll always explain why if extractions are recommended.
How often will I have appointments?
Most patients in braces are seen every 5 to 10 weeks. Cases that need closer monitoring are scheduled more frequently.
Can I schedule all my appointments after school?
We do our best to accommodate you, but not every visit can be after school. The good news: because appointments are usually 5 to 10 weeks apart, the impact on school time is minimal.
Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Yes. We may need a quick word with you when you return, so please check in with our patient manager on arrival.
Is getting braces painful?
Braces themselves aren’t painful. After an adjustment, you may feel soreness for a few days, easily managed with an over-the-counter pain reliever. Most patients report minimal discomfort.
Can I go back to school the day I get my braces?
Yes - there’s no need to miss school. You can return to your normal day right away.
Do you give shots?
No. Orthodontic procedures don’t require shots or anesthesia.
Do you use recycled braces?
Never. Every patient receives their own new braces, for the highest standard of care and hygiene.
Braces Care & Daily Life
Can I still play sports with braces?
Absolutely. We recommend a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces during activity - let us know which sports you play so we can advise you.
Do I still need to see my family dentist while in braces?
Yes. Regular dental checkups and cleanings remain important during orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will set the right intervals.
Are there foods I can’t eat with braces?
Yes - avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods like ice, hard candy, caramel, and raw crunchy vegetables (unless cut small). We provide a full list and care instructions on our All About Braces page.
How often should I brush with braces?
Brush at least four times a day - after each meal and before bed - and floss daily. We’ll show you how to floss around braces and may recommend a fluoride treatment.
What counts as an orthodontic emergency, and how do you handle it?
A true emergency means severe pain or a significant break. Most issues can be eased at home and sorted out with a phone call - see our Emergency Care page for what to do.
Kids & Early Treatment
Can orthodontic treatment start while my child still has baby teeth?
Sometimes. Certain issues benefit from early intervention; if it’s not yet time, we’ll simply monitor your child’s growth and recommend the right moment to begin.
What is Phase One (early) treatment?
Phase One is early treatment, usually for children ages 7 to 10, lasting about 12 to 21 months. It addresses significant issues early to keep them from worsening. Read more on our early treatment page.
Will my child still need full braces after Phase One?
Often, yes. After Phase One comes a “resting period” where we monitor growth and tooth eruption, then plan any teen treatment that’s needed.
Will my child need an expander?
We’ll know after the first examination. An expander gently widens a narrow upper jaw while a child is still growing, if that’s what the bite needs.
Adults & Special Situations
Is it too late to get braces as an adult?
Not at all - nationally, about one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. A healthier, straighter smile is worthwhile at any age. See our adult treatment page.
Can I have braces if I have crowns or missing teeth?
Yes. Teeth with crowns move much like natural teeth, and we can plan treatment around missing teeth to align the rest of your smile beautifully.
Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?
An orthodontist has years of specialized training beyond dental school, focused entirely on aligning teeth and bites. For the highest standard, look for a board-certified orthodontist - like Dr. Lew Sample, an ABO Diplomate.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to answer anything we didn’t cover here - just reach out or book a free first visit.
Decatur Office - 2014 Danville Park Dr SW, Decatur, AL 35603 · (256) 355-5255 Hartselle Office - 220 Karl Prince Dr SW, Hartselle, AL 35640 · (256) 773-8613