We have answers to many of the most commonly asked questions. If we haven’t answered your question, please feel free to call or email us and we’d be happy to help!
Do I have to be referred by a dentist before I can make an appointment
No, a referral is not necessary. Many of our patients are referred by their dentist, and many decide to schedule on their own. Our greatest compliment is when a patient in treatment or a former patient refers a friend of family to us
At what age should I get an Orthodontic exam?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted, allowing Dr. Chapman to evaluate your child’s orthodontic condition.
What is the cost of an examination?
Every patient gets a complimentary exam at the first visit.
How long will I have to wear braces?
Orthodontic treatment is faster and easier than ever before. Because of Dr. Chapman’s cutting edge technology, treatment is usually finished in 12-16 months.
Does Orthodontic Treatment require teeth to be extracted?
Dr. Chapman firmly believes the non-extraction treatment is generally superior, but not the right choice for everyone. No extractions will be done unless absolutely necessary
What is Phase I Treatment?
Phase One treatment is for children between the ages of 7 and 10 to address significant orthodontic problems. At this age treatment will prevent the problems from becoming more severe. As a result, self esteem and self image is improved
Does Dr. Chapman see children with baby teeth?
Yes. Some children have orthodontic problems that are significant and need early attention. If no treatment is needed, Dr. Chapman will monitor that child’s growth and development until he determines the right time for treatment.
Do I continue to see my dentist while in braces?
Yes, it is very important that you see your dentist for regular checkups. Dr. Chapman will be working closely with your dentist during your treatment.
Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not “hurt.” At ChapmanSmiles the staff are very well trained to make you as comfortable as possible. There may be times when a certain tooth will be sore after an appointment. Taking Advil will usually take care of the discomfort. You can relax knowing that no shot’s are ever given because they are not needed for orthodontic treatment!
Is it OK to play sports with braces on?
Yes, Dr. Chapman will recommend a mouth guard for you.
How often will I have appointments?
At ChapmanSmiles our patients are scheduled every 6-8 weeks. Sometimes Dr. Chapman will require seeing the patient more frequently or not as often, depending on what he is monitoring.
Can I schedule all my appointments after school?
For parents tired of missing work or not being able to get to their child’s appointment, ChapmanSmiles has a Brace Bus! The bus if a free and convenient shuttle transporting your child to and from their school to appointments.
I’m an adult, is it too late to get braces?
Dr. Chapman treats many adults. Matter of fact, the number grows larger every year with better education of dental health. 25% of all orthodontic patients nation wide are adults.
What alternative do I have to wearing braces?
If the thought of wearing braces is all that is keeping you from getting that smile you’ve dreamed of, Dr. Chapman has the answer for you. Invisalign uses a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners that no one can tell you are wearing. The aligners gradually move your teeth through the combination of Dr. Chapman’s expertise and the latest in 3-dimensional computer graphic technology
Why should I see an Orthodontic Specialist?
Orthodontists are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school, go on to additional full-time university-based education in an accredited orthodontic residency program supervised by orthodontists. That training lasts at least two to three academic years—sometimes more. By learning about tooth movement (orthodontics) and guidance of facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontists are the uniquely educated experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and align jaws. Orthodontists diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists limit their practices to orthodontics. That means that orthodontic treatment is what they do, and that is all they do. Selecting an orthodontist who is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is your assurance that you have chosen a licensed orthodontist.
