No. As a courtesy to you and your family dentist, we will always discuss the feasibility of braces or tooth straightening without charging a fee for the initial consultation. This includes complimentary records of your teeth to properly diagnose your case.
At what age do you start seeing patients?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children be seen for the first time by age 7. As a rule of thumb, we like to evaluate young patients after the 6-year molars erupt and the front permanent teeth just start to appear. This usually occurs between the ages of 6 and 8.
Why do you evaluate patients so young?
The purpose of early evaluation is to inform and observe more than to start treatment. At this early age, the eventual needs may be identified and discussed. A small percentage of this young group may need some form of orthodontic intervention to correct their growth pattern. Habits are evaluated, medical issues are discussed, and an observation schedule is arranged to evaluate ongoing development and catch any orthodontic problem before it arrives.
How long will the first visit take?
The first visit typically lasts less than an hour. During this visit, records will be taken to properly diagnose your case, and Dr. Yu will perform an evaluation and recommend treatment options. Insurance and financial information will also be provided at the end of the appointment.
Do you take patients transferring from out of town?
Yes, we do. We handle a patient transferring into our office from another city just like a new patient. We gather complete diagnostic records to show the current status and propose treatment to complete the work that has been started.
Do you have any adult patients?
Absolutely. A growing percentage of our patients are adults. New, more cosmetic appliances make adult treatment much more comfortable and convenient. Learn more here.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
Orthodontics has a long history as the first dental specialty. Similar to how a cardiologist is a specialized physician, an orthodontist is a dentist who has had at least 2 more years of full-time training in orthodontics, resulting in a nationally recognized specialty certificate. The orthodontist then limits their practice to straightening teeth and dentofacial orthopedics.
Can I make all my appointments in the afternoon after school and late in the day?
In order to have early and late appointments available for the majority of patient appointments, some procedures need to be accomplished during the hours of 9 and 3. We will do our best to work with your schedules and accommodate your family’s needs. While we do have before and after school hours, to be fair to all of our patients, we offer these appointments at every other visit.
What’s the difference between braces and Invisalign®?
Orthodontic appliances are much like a paintbrush; they only work as well as the person behind them. In the case of Invisalign, the artists are the doctor and the patient. Invisalign is simply a tool utilized by doctors to straighten teeth and correct the bite. The patient performs the treatment by wearing the aligners as prescribed by the doctor.
Both braces and Invisalign can provide excellent results. However, the advantages of each depend on the individual’s case. Treatment times are also similar between the two modalities. Overall, Invisalign tends to be a more esthetic treatment option and provides benefits in terms of ease of use and quality of life during treatment. However, it also puts more responsibility on the patient as it is their duty to wear the Invisalign as prescribed.
Do you see patients for emergencies?
Yes, contact our office for an appointment. Feel free to visit our emergency care page for more information.
How do we make payments?
Whether or not you have insurance or a dental plan, we will structure a convenient payment plan that will allow you to pay for orthodontic services over a period of time that usually coincides with your treatment plan. Learn more here.
How do you handle insurance?
After verification of coverage, we will agree to bill and collect from an insurance carrier. However, we ask patients to understand that if coverage ceases or changes, the patient is still responsible for the agreed-upon fee.
Do you take American Express, Master Card, or Visa?
Yes, we accept all major credit cards.
Do you have direct debit?
Yes, we have arrangements for direct debit, charge card posting, and payments over the Internet.
Do you charge interest?
No, we do not.
Do you give family discounts?
We have special programs and fees for multiple patients from the same family.
If I need to be pre-medicated for the dentist, do I need to take my medicine for the orthodontist?
Typically, no, but Dr. Yu will review your medical history and make recommendations accordingly.
Do retainers need to be worn after braces?
Yes, retainers are worn full-time for about 3 months, followed by nighttime wear for a lifetime.
Why do teeth get crooked after wearing braces or aligners?
Teeth move throughout life whether you have worn braces or not. It is part of the natural aging process. This is why retainer wear is recommended indefinitely to maintain your orthodontic results over a lifetime.
