FAQs
Exploring Orthodontic And Pediatric Dental Care: Answers To Your Frequently Asked Questions
At Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics, our goal is to provide concise and fully detailed answers to clear up any questions or concerns you may have. Whether you are curious about the length of your orthodontic treatment, when to first bring your child to the dentist, or anything else, our knowledgeable and friendly team is here to make sure our families are informed and confident about the decisions they make. With our kid-friendly and educational atmosphere and a desire to make going to the dentist and orthodontist fun, we aim to make every visit at Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics an enjoyable experience!
PEDIATRIC DENTAL FAQs
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should establish a dental home for your child by the age of 1 or when their first tooth comes in.
Teaching your child about the importance of good dental care early on is key. By using fun tools like dental education books, entertaining videos and talking positively about going to the dentist, it makes your child excited to go instead of fearful. For more information on your child’s first visit with us, click here.
Practicing with your child and teaching them to open wide will get your child used to having their mouth open for extended periods of time so our team can safely and efficiently clean their teeth and perform evaluations. Furthermore, our team is experienced in working with children. They know how to get on their level and make them feel comfortable. Wiggle worm and all—we are here to help make this a pleasant and positive experience!
Our entire team is committed to making sure your child feels safe and comfortable at the dentist. It starts with our front desk team. You and your child will be greeted with a warm welcome. Our office is designed with kids in mind, so there are engaging activities in the lobby and colorful drawings on the walls to enhance feelings of calmness. We also have therapy dogs that pop by to bring smiles to our patients’ faces!
Yes! Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, are important even though they eventually fall out. They help your child eat and chew properly, play a significant role in the development of speech, and act as placeholders for permanent teeth.
It is recommended that your child have routine dental check-ups every six months.
A Smile Report is a progress update we provide to keep families informed and involved in their child’s dental care. It documents your child’s visit, outlines any recommendations and helps communicate important details with family members. Every six months, pediatric recall patients receive a branded Smile Report with a cute photo taken at arrival, printed and included in their goody bag. Our team and your child’s dentist always add a personal note or word of encouragement, making it a meaningful keepsake as well as a helpful summary of your child’s visit.
ORTHODONTIC FAQs
The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on your or your child’s unique smile and treatment needs. In general, orthodontic treatment typically ranges from $5,000 to $7,000, but the exact cost can only be determined after an orthodontic evaluation with Dr. Ritter. During your or your child’s consultation, we’ll explain recommended treatment options, provide a personalized estimate and answer any questions you or your child have so you can make the best decision for your family.
Every smile is different, so treatment times vary from person to person. On average, most orthodontic treatment takes 18 to 24 months, although some people may finish sooner while others require additional time depending on the complexity of their case. Dr. Ritter will create a customized treatment plan for you or your child, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for children and, in some cases, adults. Our team is happy to review your insurance coverage, explain and help you maximize your benefits. If you have questions about costs or financial information, we’re always here to help.
While your or your child’s smile transformation is underway, Dr. Ritter typically schedules patients for visits every six to eight weeks so she can monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments. These appointments are usually quick, and help ensure your or your child’s treatment stays on track for the best possible results.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends your child have their initial orthodontic consultation by the age of seven or at the first sign of an orthodontic problem.
At Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are proud to offer several treatment options for all ages including: traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, Invisalign® and clear aligners. When you visit us for your consultation, we will evaluate your teeth, mouth and bite to determine which appliance is best for you. To learn more about our orthodontic treatment options, visit this page.
On the day you receive your braces, our team will do everything we can to make you or your child as comfortable as possible. You may experience some initial discomfort, as it can take your teeth some getting used to. We recommend you take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or Tylenol for any pain you may experience.
Yes, your child should wear a mouthguard if they play high contact sports like football, soccer or other activities that may cause accidental injuries. By wearing a protective mouthpiece, you are safe guarding your investment in a flawless smile.
Yes. While wearing braces, you should avoid eating sticky or crunchy foods like caramels or potato chips. We also recommend staying away from foods that may get stuck in braces and are hard to remove like popcorn, apples or corn on the cob. Learn more!
Absolutely! Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids and teens. If you’re looking for the smile of your dreams in order to improve your bite and boost your confidence, we offer orthodontic solutions for patients of all ages. In fact, many of our adult patients are surprised by how comfortable and convenient modern treatment can be.
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Healthy Smiles Start at Commerce Park
Pediatric Dental and Orthodontic Care
We are proud to offer comprehensive pediatric dental and orthodontic care for all ages. Our inclusive approach and experienced team provide low-stress visits and a friendly environment. Get started at one of our three convenient locations!
Healthy Smiles Start at Commerce Park
Pediatric Dental and Orthodontic Care For The Whole Family
We are proud to offer comprehensive pediatric dental and orthodontic care for the whole family. Our inclusive approach and experienced team provide low-stress visits and a friendly environment. Get started at one of our three convenient locations!