Here to Answer Your Questions.

Q: WHAT DO ORTHODONTISTS DO?

Orthodontists provide customized treatment plans to resolve developmental issues and treat existing problems. During patient consultations, orthodontists identify the most appropriate treatment methods for individual orthodontic cases. Only orthodontic specialists are fully qualified to recommend safe treatment plans.

Q: WHY IS ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT IMPORTANT?

Orthodontic treatment can improve quality of life and well-being for patients of every age. From a functional perspective, it can produce a better bite which helps reduce the risk of dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease and chewing difficulties.

Q: WHEN SHOULD I BRING MY CHILD TO THE ORTHODONTIST?

The AAO recommends an evaluation by an orthodontist at age 7. Orthodontic exams are a vital preventative measure for children. It is crucial for orthodontists to evaluate the oral health of children while the face and jaws are still developing. Early diagnosis is key to correct and resolve issues in a timely manner. When well timed, orthodontic treatment can help guide jaw growth, foster good oral habits and create a more pleasing, symmetrical smile.

Q: WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AT MY FIRST APPOINTMENT?

During your first appointment, you’ll receive an office tour and meet with Dr. Bates. He will evaluate your orthodontic needs, create a comprehensive treatment plan and answer your questions. It’s a simple and straightforward meeting, just the way we like it.

Q: HOW DOES PAYMENT FOR TREATMENT WORK?

Bates Orthodontics offers flexible financing through OrthoFi. This service allows you to design and customize your own payment plan to suit your budget and financial goals.

Q: WHAT IS A BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHODONTIST?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has not only completed a graduate program in dentistry to receive their DDS or DMD (Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine), but has also gone through a competitive residency at a CODA-accredited orthodontic program for an additional 2-3 years to be trained specifically in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. ABO Board Certification is a voluntary credential that represents an orthodontist’s personal and public commitment to the standards of specialty practice and lifelong learning. The ABO Certification process requires the completion of peer-developed, externally validated written and clinical examinations. A Board Certified Orthodontist has reached this level of achievement by pursuing additional voluntary education and ongoing self- assessment. Board Certification is confirmation of an orthodontist’s personal commitment to providing lifelong quality patient care. The American Board of Orthodontics is the only orthodontic specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists.

Question 1

WHY SEE AN ORTHODONTIST FOR BRACES?

Accepted Answer

Orthodontic treatment is a professional, medical service that should be directed and supervised by a licensed orthodontist. There are many risks associated with direct-to-consumer products. If the procedure or treatment is not done correctly, it could lead to extensive damage that may be irreversible. Orthodontists have the proper training, experience and credentials to ensure that patients receive the best medical care and the best smile.

Question 2

WHAT IS AN ORTHODONTIST?

Accepted Answer

Orthodontists are dental specialists whose sole focus is to align the teeth and jaws. Through intensive dental school and orthodontic school training, orthodontists are equipped to diagnose, prevent, correct and treat dental and facial irregularities in patients of all ages.

Question 3

WHAT IS THE APPROPRIATE AGE FOR BRACES?

Accepted Answer

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic check up around age 7. During this developmental stage, most children have a mix of permanent and baby teeth, which allows orthodontists to evaluate how the face and jaws are growing and to identify existing or developing problems that may require treatment.

Question 4

WHEN SHOULD I CONSULT AN ORTHODONTIST?

Accepted Answer

Orthodontic treatment is a long-term solution for many functional and cosmetic dental issues. If you have an overbite, underbite, jaw pain, chewing difficulties, gaps, overcrowding or other common dental concerns, it may be time to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist.

Question 5

ARE BRACES AFFORDABLE?

Accepted Answer

At Bates Orthodontics, we offer flexible financing through OrthoFi. This convenient resource allows patients to design payment plans that fit their overall lifestyle and budget.

Have a great smile

Embrace a brighter future with a more confident smile.

Embrace a brighter future with a more confident smile.

Where Special Treatment is the Only Treatment

Personalized Solutions

Healthy Foundation

Caring Approach

Flexible Financing

Convenient App-Based Access

Orthodontic Care Simplified

Schedule a Consultation

Start Treatment

Smile with Confidence

In the Highest Bracket

Well Adjusted Treatment Plans Made Just for You

Traditional Braces

Clear Ceramic Braces

Clear Aligners

Here to Answer Your Questions