Orthodontics FAQ
Got questions? We love it!
Dr. Lu and our team are known for dedicating time to chat with each patient and being fully present at every visit. Talking to you is one of our favorite parts of the job.
If you don’t see your question here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us before your first visit!
What are my treatment options?
We provide every type of treatment here! Whether your priority is to maintain smile aesthetics throughout treatment, take the most convenient path, or get to your new smile as fast as possible, we have the perfect option for you.
Choose from custom clear aligners, InBrace® lingual (behind-the-teeth) invisible braces, BioQuick® self-ligating (tie-less) braces, clear ceramic braces and traditional metal braces.
On your first visit to our Alexandria orthodontist office, we’ll help you make the best choice based on your lifestyle and priorities.
When should my child come in for their first orthodontic exam?
The AAO advises that children receive their first orthodontic screening by age 7. Early screenings are essential for detecting problematic orthodontic conditions before they progress.
Through early detection and early intervention of orthodontic problems, we can minimize the need for future treatment. Conditions that are left untreated into the adult years can require a more complex treatment, like corrective jaw surgery.
Early orthodontic screenings enable us to intervene with problematic conditions at the ideal time, and take the necessary steps to establish a healthy foundation for a beautiful set of permanent teeth to grow.
Will I need an orthodontic appliance?
We won’t know this until Dr. Lu completes your assessment. Orthodontic appliances are used for a number of reasons, like widening the jaw to create enough space for all teeth or guiding the jaws into alignment to correct a bite condition (overbite, underbite, open bite or cross bite.)
If you or your child requires an orthodontic appliance, Dr. Lu will explain everything you need to know!
Is orthodontic treatment necessary?
Not every person needs orthodontic treatment, but those who do will experience a significant and permanent improvement in their quality of life. A confident smile can empower you to embrace your full potential and become your best self — and that’s priceless.
The alignment of your teeth and jaws impacts most aspects of your life, from your facial appearance and self-confidence, to your chewing and breathing functions. The benefits of orthodontics go far beyond a beautiful smile — but a beautiful smile is a life-changing benefit too!
What is the cost of clear aligners or braces?
Like our treatments, our financing plans are flexible and custom-designed just for you! On your first visit, we’ll present our financing options and work with you to create a plan that suits your budget.
The cost of clear aligners and the cost of braces are calculated based on your case complexity and treatment length. On your first visit, we’ll discuss your orthodontics cost, calculate your insurance benefit, match you with any discount opportunities, and create a customized financing plan with 0% interest.
Do I still need to visit my dentist throughout my orthodontic treatment period?
Yes! Dental cleanings are still extremely important. We want to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy throughout treatment. Visit your dentist for professional cleanings every 6 months or however often your dentist advises.
Dr. Lu is happy to coordinate with your dentist on any needs throughout your treatment as well.
How long will I have to wear braces or clear aligners?
Your treatment plan will be completely customized just for you! The length of your treatment will be determined based on the severity of your condition but can also be impacted by your diligence in wearing any removable appliances (including clear aligners.)
On your first visit, Dr. Lu will assess your smile and give you an estimated treatment length. This can range anywhere from 6 months to 36 months, but the average full treatment time is about 12 months.
By following Dr. Lu’s instructions, wearing your clear aligners aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours a day and maintaining excellent oral hygiene, we can minimize your treatment length as much as possible.
What happens if my braces bracket breaks or I lose my clear aligners/retainer?
In the event of an ‘orthodontic emergency’, please call our office as soon as possible and we’ll make time to see you. We want to fix the issue and help you stay on track in your transformation.
If a bracket breaks, try to put it in a ziploc bag if possible and bring it to your appointment. If you lose your clear aligners, wear your most recent set of clear aligners if you have them. Call us and let us know that you lost your clear aligners or retainer, and we’ll guide you on next steps.
Check out our orthodontic emergencies resource page for tips on how to handle these situations!
Am I too old to start orthodontic treatment?
No matter your age, the answer is no! You’re never too old to start living your best life. Ready to find your confidence at 82 years young? We’re all in.
How do I know if I need orthodontic treatment?
This is why we perform a complimentary exam. During your orthodontic exam with Dr. Lu, we’ll thoroughly assess your condition (including x-rays and diagnostic photos) and discuss any orthodontic-related symptoms you may be experiencing.
Through this assessment, we can determine whether you need orthodontic treatment. In the meantime, here are some signs you can look out for to determine whether you need treatment:
- You have crowding or spacing
- You’re not confident in your smile
- You have difficulty breathing, or you mouth-breathe often
- You have difficulty sleeping
- You feel pain when opening or closing your mouth
- Your jaw pops or clicks when opening your mouth
- Your teeth overlap
- Your top teeth overlap your bottom teeth
- Your bottom teeth overlap your top teeth
- You experience persistent soreness in your teeth or gums
