Peluso Orthodontics FAQs

No, it is not. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, yet many other patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age seven. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate their orthodontic condition. In most cases, treatment will not begin until an older age. However, there are a handful of conditions that are best treated early.

Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. Any appointment longer than 45 minutes will be scheduled in the morning. However, because most appointments are scheduled six to eight weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments. We will, however, make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.

Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in before dropping off their child.

Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every three to eight weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.

Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.

It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined you. Each treatment plan is created specifically for the patient, and so the cost can vary. However, we will be able to give you a ballpark figure after your exam. Final cost is presented at the conference appointment after Dr. Chris has developed your treatment plan. At the conference, we will also present several financing options to accommodate your needs. We will review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims.

Generally, braces do not “hurt.” After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all!

Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.

Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include ice, hard candy, raw vegetables, and all sticky foods. You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.

A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness, and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is “too old” to wear braces! Dr. Chris has treated patients as old as 80.