Your First Visit:
Orthodontic treatment require specialized care. Patients who have dental and facial irregularities should be cared for by an Orthodontist. Our specific qualifications in the design, application and control of corrective appliances will bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment for optimal facial balance.
Stewart and Labbe Orthodontics has the specialized equipment, facility and staff to properly address today's most demanding orthodontic needs, in a warm and caring environment. We are located in Annapolis, Bowie, Crofton and Greenbelt.
Initial Examination
Our office is committed to making your first visit a comfortable, enjoyable and informative experience. On your first visit to our practice, you will take a tour of our office and we will take a digital panoramic x-ray as well as digital photos of your smile and your bite. We will gather the necessary information to make a customized treatment plan that recognizes your individual needs. After the consultation and careful review of your records, a detailed outline of your treatment plan will be reviewed with you and an outline of your treatment will also be sent to your dentist. For some children, treatment is necessary but would be best after more growth and development have occurred. In these cases, we will re-examine the teeth and bite at 4-12 month intervals. These follow-up visits are also complimentary.
Regular Visits
After you begin your treatment, your visits will generally be at a 4-8 week interval. The length of these appointments usually run between 15-45 minutes. At Stewart and Labbe Orthodontics we pride ourselves not only on our quality of care but on being prompt and respecting that our patients have busy schedules.
Fees and Insurance
The fee for orthodontic treatment depends on the complexity of the problem, appliances utilized and length of treatment. We discuss all treatment fees and payment options before treatment begins. We accept most insurance plans and we offer flexible payment plans to suit almost any budget. At Stewart and Labbe we make every effort to make orthodontics affordable.
FAQs
Can I play contact sports with braces?
Yes, you can play contact sports BUT you must wear a mouthguard. We would be happy to provide you with one. Just ask!
Do braces hurt?
Wearing braces is simple and generally quite easy with the modern devices available. However, braces do need to be regularly adjusted and this will make the teeth feel tender for a few days. The fitting of braces is generally painless. Discomfort usually occurs several hours after placement of the appliances and similarly after adjustments.
How much do braces cost?
No two orthodontic problems are the same and the cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on the severity of the problem as well as the treatment required. Many orthodontic problems require only simple treatment and you might find that the cost is lower than you expected. Costs will be discussed in full at your initial consultation. The fees that are quoted cover all aspects of your orthodontic treatment including all office visits, retainers and follow up visits.
Do I have to pay for my orthodontic care all at once?
We are sensitive to the financial pressures on families today. So, for your convenience, we provide multiple payment plans for your orthodontic care. This includes options through financial companies such as Springstone and Care Credit. In addition, we also offer in-house finance options that have zero financial fees or interest rates. These options do require a down payment.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
On average, orthodontic treatment usually takes 18-24 months. The total treatment time depends on a large number of factors including the severity of the original bite problem and the type of treatment being carried out. Also, the patient’s compliance, oral hygiene habits and the ability to keep appointments can also contribute to treatment time.
How do I take care of braces?
The care of your braces will be fully explained to you on the same day that they are placed on your teeth. You will get a full run down on cleaning, foods to avoid and how to prevent breakage. Compliance with these rules will result in a beautiful, healthy smile and minimize your time in braces.
Should I continue to see my family dentist while in braces?
DEFINITELY! At Stewart and Labbe Orthodontics, we work very closely with your family dentist and stress the importance of regular dental visits. It is very important to see your dentist twice a year to prevent and detect dental decay as well as monitor your overall dental health.
When should my child start orthodontic treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children have their first orthodontic exam at the age of 7. It is possible that problems will develop as the child’s permanent teeth are erupting. By quickly identifying such problems, you can reduce their severity and prevent early damage. In addition, early orthodontic treatment may eliminate or reduce the need for more extensive orthodontic work later on. This does not mean that every child will require early orthodontic treatment.
When will my regular appointments be scheduled?
At Stewart and Labbe Orthodontics, we share your concern about missing school or work and therefore make every effort to ensure that all patients receive a fair share of convenient appointments. We schedule longer appointments during school hours and shorter, more routine appointments before and after school. The majority of your appointments fall in the routine category.
Will braces make me talk funny?
No, braces should not interfere with the way you speak or the sound of your voice. Please understand that depending on the appliances that are being utilized, there may be a brief adjustment period. We recommend that our patients go home and do some out loud reading. You will be amazed at how quickly your mouth will adjust!
Will I need to have teeth removed?
At Stewart and Labbe Orthodontics, we go above and beyond to avoid the extraction of permanent healthy teeth. Modern orthodontics in conjunction with treatment at an appropriate age has reduced the need for extractions in the majority of cases. This is true even with our adult patients. There are cases where crowding, the position of the teeth or the bite itself may dictate the need to extract teeth. However, these cases are very much in the minority.
Treatment Options
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Call us today to set up a New Patient Consultation for you or a member of your family. You can also click HERE to make an online request. 888-828-8558
