Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment

An orthodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating problems with the alignment of the teeth and jaws. Orthodontic treatment can straighten crooked or crowded teeth, close unwanted spaces, improve bite problems, and create a healthier, more functional smile.

Common signs that you may benefit from orthodontic treatment include crowded or overlapping teeth, gaps between teeth, protruding teeth, an overbite, underbite, crossbite, difficulty biting or chewing, or teeth that don’t come together properly. The best way to know for sure is to schedule an orthodontic evaluation with Dr. Senties.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can evaluate how the permanent teeth and jaws are developing and identify potential problems early. An evaluation at age 7 does not necessarily mean your child will need braces right away.

No. There is no upper age limit for improving your smile with orthodontic treatment. Many adults choose braces or clear aligners to correct crowding, spacing, bite problems, or teeth that have shifted since previous orthodontic treatment.

Senties Family Orthodontics offers several treatment options, including traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, custom LightForce™ braces, Invisalign®, and Angel Aligner™. Dr. Senties will evaluate your teeth and bite and discuss which treatment options are appropriate for your needs, lifestyle, and smile goals.

Both braces and clear aligners can effectively straighten teeth, but the best option depends on your orthodontic needs and lifestyle. Braces remain attached to the teeth throughout treatment, while clear aligners are removable and offer a more discreet appearance. Dr. Senties can help you compare your options and determine which is best for your smile.

Orthodontic treatment time varies from patient to patient. The complexity of your case, the amount of tooth movement needed, the type of treatment you choose, and how your teeth respond to treatment can all affect your timeline. After your evaluation, Dr. Senties can provide a personalized treatment plan and estimated treatment time.

The frequency of your appointments will depend on your treatment plan and the type of orthodontic treatment you’re receiving. These visits allow Dr. Senties to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to keep your treatment moving according to plan.

You may experience some temporary soreness or pressure when braces are first placed or after certain adjustments. This is normal as your teeth begin moving into their new positions. Most discomfort is temporary and improves as your mouth adjusts.

You’ll still be able to enjoy many of your favorite foods with braces, but you’ll need to avoid foods that can bend wires, loosen brackets, or otherwise damage your appliances. Hard, sticky, chewy, and overly crunchy foods should generally be avoided. Cutting certain foods into smaller pieces can also make them safer to eat during treatment.

Yes. Braces shouldn’t stop you from participating in sports or other activities. If you play a contact sport or participate in an activity where your mouth could be hit, an orthodontic mouthguard can help protect your teeth, lips, cheeks, and braces.

Good oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment. Brush carefully around your brackets and along the gumline to remove plaque and trapped food. You’ll also need to clean between your teeth each day using floss or another orthodontist-recommended cleaning tool.

Yes. Your orthodontist and dentist have different roles in keeping your smile healthy. Continue seeing your general dentist for regular cleanings, exams, and preventive dental care throughout orthodontic treatment. Dr. Senties can coordinate with your dentist when necessary.

A broken bracket or loose wire isn’t always an orthodontic emergency, but you should contact our office so we can determine what needs to be done. If something is causing significant discomfort or you’re unsure whether it requires immediate attention, give Senties Family Orthodontics a call for guidance.

Yes. Retainers are an important part of maintaining your new smile after active orthodontic treatment. Teeth naturally have a tendency to shift over time, so wearing your retainer as directed by Dr. Senties helps keep your teeth in their corrected positions.

Your teeth can gradually shift if you stop wearing your retainer. The amount of movement varies from person to person and can become more noticeable over time. If your retainer no longer fits or you’ve noticed your teeth shifting, contact our office so we can evaluate your smile and recommend the appropriate next step.

There is no single price for orthodontic treatment because every patient’s needs are different. Your cost can depend on factors such as the complexity and length of treatment, insurance benefits, and your selected payment plan. Senties Family Orthodontics offers flexible payment and financing options to help make treatment more manageable.

Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that may cover a portion of treatment. Coverage varies by plan. Our team can help you understand your benefits, file applicable insurance claims, and determine how your coverage applies to your treatment costs.

No. You can schedule an orthodontic consultation directly with Senties Family Orthodontics without a referral from your general dentist.

Your first visit is an opportunity to learn about your smile and treatment options. Dr. Senties will evaluate your teeth and bite, review your diagnostic information, and discuss whether orthodontic treatment could benefit you. If treatment is recommended, we’ll explain your options, estimated timeline, costs, insurance benefits, and available payment plans.

You can request a complimentary orthodontic exam with Dr. Senties at Senties Family Orthodontics in San Antonio, Texas. Our Alamo Ranch office provides orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults, including braces and clear aligner options.