By Nora Heston Tarte
Braces are a BIG investment. Not only do they cost a pretty penny, parents who pay for their childrens’ braces are making an investment into their future, setting them up for success and positive oral health later in life.
Science shows that a healthy smile can give children confidence, as well as help them to make a positive impression on others so it’s well worth the Orthodontic cost (or 치아 교정 비용). Aesthetics aside, proper oral care at a young age leads to better oral health as an adult, especially when steps are taken to maintain your mouth.
Cameron Wheeler, DDS, of Wheeler Orthodontics in Stockton, says a successful orthodontic investment can be broken down into three steps. First, choose the right place. “I think there is a misconception held by many that all orthodontic treatment must be equal,” he says. “Not all braces are the same. Not all practitioners are the same.”
What many parents don’t realize is that orthodontists take two to three years of additional training after dental school to master their specialties. “In essence, they learn and perfect the tools and techniques to accurately diagnose and treat any case… to ‘get the job done right.'”
Secondly, children and parents must follow a practitioner’s directions to achieve the best results. Regardless of the request, the orthodontist is the professional and their advice comes with merit. From making all scheduled appointments to following good oral hygiene, the suggestions they make lead to a healthier, happier mouth. “Poor hygiene causes inflammation,” Dr. Wheeler says. “Inflammation can result in drastically slower tooth movement and can accelerate damage to adjacent soft and hard tissues which can compromise the result.”
Finally, review all payment plans and expectations with your orthodontist’s office. Hidden fees and al la carte services can rack up big bills. Records, exam and diagnosis charges, treatment that reaches beyond the contract terms, and fees for late appointments, broken appliances, emergency visits, and premium up sells all add up. To make orthodontics as affordable as possible, some practitioners offer monthly payment plans, and will even forego interest.
After care it’s still important to continue on the path laid out by your orthodontist. Step two doesn’t end when your braces are removed. Continued use of retainers, proper brushing and flossing, and regular dental checkups are all required to preserve the results you’ve achieved through orthodontics. Shift happens when you don’t follow directions. Staying on top of your oral health is a lifelong need.
Ask an expert:
Cameron Wheeler, DDS, MS
4568 Feather River Dr., Stockton
(209) 951-0151
WheelerOrtho.com