The American Association of Orthodontics recommends children have an initial orthodontic evaluation at age seven. Treatment rarely is started at this age, but many times early interceptive dental treatment can be done to minimize future treatment needs. Most patients seen at this age will be placed into a growth and guidance status; meaning we will watch their growth and oral development until the ideal treatment time is reached.
We appreciate it when parents remain in the waiting room unless summoned. This allows us to comply with the current HIPAA laws. (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). If you feel that you need to be with your child, please notify the front desk and we can make special arrangements. If you have questions or concerns, please let the assistant know and Dr. Logan or Dr. Cooper can visit with you afterwards.
No! As long as the patient has an adequate periodontal status with good dental health, there is no age limitation for treatment. However, treatment options may be more limited on adult patients and treatment times may be longer. Everyone, no matter their age, can have the confident smile they’ve always dream of.
Treatment times vary depending on the type of treatment and the complexity of the case. Generally, full orthodontic treatment ranges from 18-24 months but many factors influence the amount of time a patient is in active treatment. Treatment times can be reduced with excellent patient cooperation or extended if patients fail to follow the Orthodontist's instructions.
Treatment costs depend on the type and complexity of the treatment plan. Difficult cases are generally more costly to treat than minor treatment needs. We base our fee upon what is needed for each unique case. Exact treatment costs will be determined following diagnosis and treatment planning and presented at the new patient exam.
Orthodontic treatment is an excellent investment in the overall health and well-being of children and adults. We’re pleased to offer our patients a variety of affordable payment options to ensure quality care fits within your budget. We provide flexible financing plans, interest-free payment options, and accept most insurance plans to help cover treatment costs. Our goal is to make achieving a beautiful, healthy smile accessible for everyone.
Orthodontic treatment shouldn’t be painful—but it’s totally normal to feel a little soreness or pressure, especially when you first get your braces or aligners, or after adjustments. That just means your teeth are on the move! Most discomfort goes away within a few days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers (and maybe a little ice cream). Dr. Logan and the team are always here to make sure you're comfortable every step of the way.
Both general dentists and orthodontists care about your smile—but orthodontists like Dr. Logan go through extra years of specialized training (after dental school) focused specifically on straightening teeth and aligning jaws. It’s kind of like the difference between a family doctor and a heart specialist. While some general dentists offer braces or clear aligners, orthodontists are the experts in diagnosing and treating complex bite and alignment issues. When it comes to your smile, that extra training makes all the difference!
How do I know if someone is a true Orthodontist with a specialty degree? You can look for the words “Orthodontist” or “Specialist in Orthodontics” on their website, signage, or business card. You can also check if they’re a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)—only dentists who have completed an accredited orthodontic residency program are eligible to join. And of course, if you're visiting Dr. Logan, you're in expert hands!
This depends upon the case and the degree of tooth movement needed to address the problem, but as a general rule most patients are actively checked for a period of at least one year following completion of treatment. Your Orthodontist may advise continued wear of retainers on a part time basis to maintain alignment.
Tooth removal may be required in some cases to address severe crowding and provide a more stable final result. The trend in orthodontics has been to treat more cases without the extraction of permanent teeth, but we still have to consider it as the best option for some patients. Treatment plans are customized for each patient and a number of factors determine if permanent teeth need to be removed prior to start of treatment.
Fortunately the risks are very minimal if the treatment is done correctly. However, there is always the potential for root blunting, gingival recession, decay and decalcification. Your Orthodontist is trained to properly diagnose and treat in ways that minimize most risks, but patients also have a responsibility to follow instructions especially regarding care of the appliances. Unwanted decay and decalcification are usually the result of poor dental hygiene and diet during treatment.
Yes. It is recommended that you continue regular dental checkups and cleanings during orthodontic correction. Most Orthodontists are willing to remove your wires prior to your dental checkup and replace them following your appointment with your dentist.
No. Most patients are referred to the Orthodontist but it is not a requirement. You may make an appointment on your own for an initial evaluation if you are interested in treatment.
Orthodontic treatment can not only enhance a person's appearance but may also lead to improved confidence and self-esteem. Correctly aligned teeth improve overall oral health and reduce the incidence of tooth decay, gum disease, and premature tooth wear.
Phase I treatment may begin as early as age 8-9 and usually involves partial braces to create space for developing and erupting teeth, correction of crossbites, underbites, overbites and harmful habits. Only some children will require a Phase I treatment. Performing Phase I treatment can minimize future treatment needs but often times the patient will need further treatment or Phase II to complete the case.
Phase II treatment involves full braces or aligners, which allow for complete control of all teeth. It allows the Orthodontist to bodily move, tip, and torque the teeth into a more ideal location. Final long term retention is a component of Phase II treatment and a very important aspect of the total treatment process.
Orthodontics is constantly improving the appliances and techniques used to straighten teeth. In addition to stainless steel braces that most patients select, we also have ceramic or tooth-colored braces and a number of colored elastic ties to choose from. There are also new techniques that use clear appliances rather than braces to align the teeth, such as Clear Aligners. Your Orthodontist will offer the appropriate types of appliances for your treatment needs and then you can select what would work best for you.