Adult Orthodontics, Children's Braces & Invisalign ® Clear Braces in San Antonio, TX
Perryman Orthodontics is the San Antonio, Helotes, and Leon Valley, TX area's source for comprehensive children's and adult orthodontics. We work with patients of all ages, from children to adulthood. While there is no wrong time to visit an orthodontist, it is generally considered best practice to bring your child to see us around the age of seven years old. This is the time when adult teeth begin to erupt, giving us a good idea of what to expect regarding your child's bite shape and formation going forward. We can use this information to devise a treatment plan if necessary. We can also meet with adolescents and adults who notice problems with their bite or teeth in general. No matter what your problem might be, our orthodontist will be happy to take a look and offer advice.
If you suspect that you or your child would benefit from orthodontic treatment, don't hesitate to give our office a call - you do not need a referral from a dentist to see an orthodontist. Our office will be happy to schedule a free consultation.
What To Expect During Your Free Orthodontics Consultation
First, we will collect patient information. This includes medical and dental history, as well as any other personal information that might be applicable. Please arrive to your free consultation 15 minutes early to fill out new patient forms in a timely manner.
Next is a short clinical examination. In addition to examining you, Dr. Perryman will review patient history and gather specific information about the patient's teeth in order to provide the best possible treatment plan. Patients are encouraged to ask questions to ensure that the treatment will work for them.
We wrap up by discussing financial options. Our office offers in-house payment plans for your convenience and accept most insurance carriers. We understand that orthodontic treatments can be expensive, so we make sure to offer options.
Any More Questions for Our Orthodontist?
If you have any additional questions about our children braces or adult orthodontics services, browse the selection of frequently asked questions below. We understand that you are curious about the treatment you can expect to receive, or what the experience with braces or Invisalign is like. We have compiled many of the questions we hear most often below. If you have specific circumstances that influence your question, or you don't see your question here, please feel free to contact our office. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is always on hand to assist you. We also offer free consultations to ensure that all of your questions and concerns are addressed before we proceed with your treatment plan.
FAQs
Q: What is an orthodontist?
A: Orthodontists complete three levels of education, including college, dental school, and an orthodontic residency, before becoming an orthodontist.
Q: Why go to an orthodontist?
A: Orthodontists are specialists at creating beautiful smiles. And while well-aligned teeth are attractive, they also prevent and solve problems related to bite, chewing, and speaking. Orthodontists focus on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of orthodontic issues and do not offer other services, such as general dentistry. They are your source for children's braces.
Q: Is orthodontic treatment painful?
A: There may be minor discomfort in the first few days of orthodontic treatment, but it is not painful. The discomfort usually lasts no more than three to five days, and there are multiple options to help relieve any soreness or irritation.
Orthodontists use various appliances, such as braces, clear aligner trays, and retainers, to aid in moving teeth and holding new positions. They make recommendations based on specific patient needs to create the fastest, most pain-free treatment period possible.
Q: How long does orthodontic treatment usually last?
A: The treatment path is unique with every patient and depends on the severity of issues being addressed, but the average treatment period for something like children's braces lasts for two years.
Q: What causes orthodontic problems?
A: Many orthodontic issues are inherited, such as gaps between teeth or overcrowding. Others are caused by non-inherited means, including thumb and finger sucking, trauma, and various diseases.
Q: What age is ideal for orthodontic treatment?
A: Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Most orthodontists recommend treatment during adolescence, while the patient's teeth and jaws are still growing but enough adult teeth have grown to recognize any problems. This is why children's braces are so common. However, adult orthodontic treatment options can also be highly successful in individuals of any age.
Q: Are Invisalign Clear Braces a good option for me?
A: It depends on your individual circumstances. Most strong candidates for Invisalign Clear Braces have alignment issues without the need for more serious corrective measures. Older teens and adults tend to prefer this option due to the discrete nature of the appliance.
Q: How quickly do teeth move with Invisalign Clear Braces?
A: Invisalign clear braces are a gradual process just like getting wire braces. Some patients may begin to see subtle results as early as 10 weeks.
Q: How long do I have to wear a retainer after Invisalign Clear Braces?
A: Usually, Invisalign clear braces patients wear their retainers according to a definite schedule such as: 12 to 22 hours for the first 3 to 6 months after treatment. For night time, only for the next 6 to 12 months and beyond. 3 to 5 times per week after one year and beyond.
Q: What is the best way to clean Invisalign clear braces?
A: The best way to clean your Invisalign clear braces is with the Invisalign cleaning system. Another way to clean them is with toothpaste and a toothbrush, then rinse with lukewarm water. Do not run very hot water on the Invisalign clear braces because it can warp the plastic.
Q: How often will I have to see my orthodontist during treatment?
A: Most patients see their orthodontist every six to ten weeks during treatment. This allows your orthodontist to make the necessary changes and keep an eye on your progress.
Q: What do I do if I lose my retainer?
A: Without your retainer, you might experience unwanted movement of your teeth, delaying your orthodontic treatment. Contact your orthodontist right away to discuss replacement options.
Q: Do I need to change my oral hygiene routine during orthodontic treatment?
A: Yes - your specific care routine will vary based on your individual treatment, but most orthodontic patients will need to avoid hard, sticky, crunchy, or overly chewy foods. You will also want to avoid chewing on ice, fingernails, or anything else. Your orthodontist will review brushing and flossing techniques and frequency based on your individual treatment.