Walking into an orthodontic consultation without questions is like showing up on a road trip without a map—you might get where you’re going, but wouldn’t it be easier with a little direction? Dr. Richard McDermott and the team at McDermott Orthodontics in Arnold and Florissant know that understanding your treatment options from the start makes the entire process smoother. Let’s break down five must-ask questions so you can walk into your consultation feeling ready to take the wheel.
1. What Treatment Options Are Available for My Needs?
Braces aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and the best approach for your teeth depends on what needs to be adjusted. Dr. Richard McDermott offers a variety of treatments, each designed to improve function and appearance in different ways. Asking about your options during your consultation helps you understand what to expect and how each choice fits your lifestyle. Here’s what to ask about:
- Braces: Traditional metal braces are a tried-and-true option, while clear braces offer a more subtle look with tooth-colored brackets.
- Invisalign: A nearly invisible alternative that gradually moves teeth without brackets or wires. These clear aligners are removable, making eating and brushing easier.
- Specialty Appliances: In some cases, additional tools like expanders or bite correctors may be recommended to fine-tune jaw positioning.
Understanding your treatment options is the first step toward making an informed decision. Now, let’s look at how long the process might take.
2. How Long Will Treatment Take?
Let’s be real—when you sit down for your consultation, one of the first things on your mind is “How long am I in this for?” While some treatments wrap up in a year, others require more time to get the best results. Dr. Richard McDermott takes several factors into account when estimating your timeline:
Starting Point Matters
If your teeth need minor adjustments, your treatment will likely be on the shorter side. More complex cases? Expect a little extra time to fine-tune things.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners
Both get the job done, but they work at different speeds depending on your needs. Some cases move faster with one option over the other.
Commitment Counts
Skipping checkups or forgetting to wear clear aligners as recommended can add extra months to your treatment plan.
Understanding your estimated timeline gives you a clearer picture of what to expect. Now, let’s break down the costs so you know how to plan.
3. How Much Does Treatment Cost, and What Are My Payment Options?
Braces and clear aligners are an investment, but don’t let the price tag scare you off. Let’s be honest: one of the biggest questions on your mind is likely, “How much is this going to cost?”
One of the first things to ask is what’s included in the cost. Some treatment plans bundle everything together—brackets, wires, checkups, retainers—while others may list them separately. Understanding what’s covered can help avoid surprises later on.
If you have dental insurance, it’s worth checking how much coverage is available for orthodontic care. The team at McDermott Orthodontics can review your benefits and help you make sense of your options.
For those without insurance—or those looking to break payments into manageable amounts—flexible payment plans may be available. Many patients choose this route to spread costs over time rather than paying all at once.
Once the financial details are sorted, the next big question is what daily life will look like during treatment. Let’s go over what to expect.
4. What Will Life Be Like During Treatment?
Braces or clear aligners require you to change your daily routine. Knowing what to expect makes it easier to adjust and stay on track throughout treatment.
Eating with Braces vs. Clear Aligners
- Braces: Some foods are off-limits—sticky candy, crunchy snacks, and anything that could pop off a bracket or bend a wire. Softer foods and careful chewing are your best friends.
- Clear Aligners: No food restrictions! But trays need to be removed before eating and cleaned before putting them back in.
Keeping Your Teeth (and Braces) Clean
- Braces: Brushing and flossing take a little more effort since brackets and wires create extra spaces for food to hide. Special flossers and a little patience go a long way.
- Clear Aligners: Teeth and trays need to be cleaned regularly to prevent staining and bacteria buildup.
Regular Checkups with Dr. McDermott
- Braces require adjustment appointments to keep everything moving in the right direction.
- Clear aligners need progress checks to swap out trays and make sure treatment stays on schedule.
Once your time in braces or aligners wraps up, the next step is just as important—keeping those teeth in place. Let’s talk about retainers.
5. What Happens After Treatment Ends?
Wrapping up orthodontic treatment is a big milestone, but the work isn’t over just yet—your teeth still need a little backup to stay put. That’s where retainers step in, keeping everything right where it should be. Dr. Richard McDermott will go over the best retainer option for you and how to make sure your results last for the long haul.
Types of Retainers
- Removable Retainers: These can be taken out for eating and brushing. They come in two styles—Hawley retainers (made of acrylic and wire) and clear retainers that look similar to aligners.
- Fixed Retainers: A thin wire bonded to the back of your teeth to hold them in place. These are great for long-term stability, with no daily maintenance required.
How Long Do You Need to Wear a Retainer?
- At first, retainers are typically worn full-time, then gradually reduced to nighttime wear.
- Long-term use is recommended to keep teeth from shifting.
Wearing a retainer is the final step in preserving all the hard work put into your treatment from McDermott Orthodontics.
No More Guesswork—Get the Answers You Need
Starting orthodontic treatment is a big step, but knowing what to expect makes the whole process smoother. Dr. Richard McDermott and the team at McDermott Orthodontics in Arnold and Florissant are ready to answer every question, from treatment options to life with braces or aligners. What’s the best way to get the information you need? Ask!
Contact us today to schedule your consultation so you can walk in feeling prepared, excited, and ready for what’s ahead!