Frequently Asked Questions

Why should our family choose 1ST IMPRESSIONS Orthodontics?

1ST IMPRESSIONS Orthodontics treats all of their patients as if they were royalty. 1ST IMPRESSIONS is a smaller office than other offices in the area and around the nation. This allows them to really get to know their patient families and provide orthodontic treatment and services on a much more personal level. You will not find a nicer facility with more comfort and amenities than the 1ST IMPRESSIONS Orthodontics office. Also, you will not find better value for the excellent services you receive anywhere.

How much does Orthodontic treatment cost?

Orthodontic treatment is a great investment! You get much more out of your treatment than you put into it.

At 1ST IMPRESSIONS Orthodontics, all fees are based on the length and the difficulty of the treatment. This way, all patients are given a fair fee. 1ST IMPRESSIONS Orthodontics makes orthodontic treatment more affordable than any other office. All payment plans can be financed over the time period of your choice, and most plans are interest free.

Because of new technology and advanced treatment techniques, orthodontics is more affordable now than ever before. For example, in the year 1970, a new Ford Mustang GT cost about $5,000.00. In the year 2007, a new Ford Mustang GT costs about $35,000.00. However, the average cost of orthodontic treatment has remained exactly the same from 1970 to the year 2007! WOW!

Financial considerations should not be an obstacle to a beautiful smile. When it comes to you or your child's face, there is too much at stake to base your decision on the lowest possible price. 1ST IMPRESSIONS Orthodontics is dedicated to making certain that you can afford the very best! You do not have to settle for less than you want or deserve.

Do you take my insurance?

1ST IMPRESSIONS Orthodontics works with almost all insurance companies. If you have dental insurance with orthodontic coverage, we will make sure that you receive every dollar of benefit that you are entitled to! 1ST IMPRESSIONS will complete and electronically file all the complicated insurace forms for you. All we need is your information and you will receive your benefits with no extra time or effort on your part.

Do I have to be careful with what I eat when I wear braces?

Yes. Please be very careful when eating chewy foods; like bagels, hard rolls, and licorice. Crunchy foods; like popcorn, ice, and chips. Sticky foods; like caramels and taffy. Hard foods; like nuts and hard candies. Biting on hard objects; like pens, pencils, or fingernails. Damaged braces will cause orthodontic treatment to last much longer.

Will my teeth be tender after I visit the orthodontist?

No, not immediately after your visit with the orthodontist. Several hours later, you may feel some tenderness in your teeth and gums. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with salt water. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and rinse the salt water around your mouth vigorously. Also, taking the recommended dose of Advil or Tylenol every 6-8 hours during the first day can relieve some of the tenderness as well.

Is it normal to feel like you have loose teeth when you have braces?

Yes. This is to be expected throughout treatment. Don't worry! It's normal. Teeth must loosen first so that they can become rigidly fixed in their new-corrected-positions.

Is it important to take care of your appliances during your orthodontic treatment?

Yes. It is extremely important! Taking good care of your appliances can mean the difference between an extraordinary result and a mediocre result. Poor oral hygiene and multiple broken brackets can seriously compromise the quality and length of your orthodontic treatment. Please take excellent care of your teeth and your orthodontic appliances...it is very important!

Should I wear a mouthgaurd when I play sports with braces on?

If you play sports, it's important that you consult us for any special precautions. A mouthgaurd is advised when playing any contact sports; with or without braces. If you are involved in an accident involving the face, check your mouth and appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances are damaged, phone our office for an appointment. In the meantime, treat your discomfort as you would treat any general soreness.

What should I do if I have a loose wire, bracket, or band?

Don't be alarmed if a wire, bracket, or band comes loose. This happens occasionally. If wire protrudes and is irritating, use a blunt instrument (like the eraser of a pencil) and carefully, gently push the irritating wire under the archwire. Simply get it out of the way. If irritation continues, place wax or wet cotton on the wire to reduce the annoyance. Call our office for an appointment to check the appliances. If any piece comes off, save it and bring it with you to the office.

Do I need to wear retainers when I am finished with my orthodontic treatment?

Yes. Retainers are a very important part of your orthodontic correction. Please wear your retainers exactly as Dr. Gibson prescribes. Clean your retainers once each day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm, but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent or Retainer Brite appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing.

Keep your retainers in a retainer case and inside of a drawer. Pets love to chew on retainers and will destroy them if they are left out in the open. Remember, retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, call us immediately. Always bring your retainers to your appointments. Keep in mind that retainer replacement is expensive....but with proper care, they will last for years!