Orthodontic FAQs
Welcome to Eagle Rock Orthodontics! We know starting or continuing orthodontic care brings questions—and sometimes stress. Here, we answer the most common inquiries we hear from both new and returning patients. Our goal? Helping you feel comfortable, informed, and confident about your orthodontic journey.
What age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic screening by age 7, when most kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. Early visits let us catch jaw or bite issues early—like underbites, crossbites, or crowding—and sometimes prevent more complex treatment later. Even if your child is older, you’re never too late to start.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment times vary by age, severity, and appliance type:
- Children & Teens: 18–24 months on average.
- Adults: 18–36 months, depending on complexity.
- Specific appliances vary:
- Metal or ceramic braces: 18–36 months
- Clear aligners (Invisalign): 12–24 months.
Factors like misalignment severity, bone growth, and patient compliance also affect the timeline.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
To protect your braces and teeth, please skip:
- Hard or crunchy items: nuts, popcorn, ice
- Sticky or chewy treats: caramels, gummy candies
- Hard fruits or veggies: whole apples, raw carrots
- Crunchy snacks: chips, pretzels
Instead, go for softer options like pasta, bananas, cooked veggies, and yogurt. These help prevent brackets from breaking and wires from bending.
Do you offer payment plans or accept insurance?
Yes! Eagle Rock Orthodontics accepts most dental insurance plans. Insurance often covers 50% of braces for kids and teens (up to plan limits), while adult coverage varies. We also offer:
- 0% interest, in-house payment plans you can spread over 18–36 months
- HSA/FSA-friendly billing
- No-interest options for upfront payments
- Referral to third-party financing (e.g., CareCredit)
Learn more here. Or call us for personalized help!
Do you offer free consultations or handle emergencies?
Yes! We offer free initial consultations—no pressure, just honest advice about your options. Plus, we understand that accidents happen. That’s why we do same-day emergency visits for issues like broken brackets or poking wires. When you call, we’ll get you in ASAP.
What should I expect at my first visit?
Here’s the usual first visit timeline:
- Review your dental history
- Conduct an oral exam, photos, and X-rays
- Discuss treatment goals (braces, Invisalign, retainers)
- Develop a customized treatment plan with time estimates, payment options, and timeline
- Book your next visit or emergency assessment
You’ll leave feeling informed, with a clear roadmap—no stress, no surprises.
How does Eagle Rock Orthodontics support treatment goals?
Here’s a glimpse of our promise to you:
- Personalized care for all ages (kids, teens, adults)
- A range of brace types: metal, ceramic, and Invisalign
- Easy insurance navigation and transparent billing
- Supportive tracking—from installation, adjustments, to retainers
- Emergency care and repairs when needed
- Convenient access via our Contact page and easy-to-complete Patient Forms
How often do I need to visit the orthodontist during treatment?
Most patients visit us every 6 to 10 weeks. These regular check-ups help us track your progress, make adjustments, and ensure your treatment stays on schedule. Invisalign patients may need fewer in-person visits, depending on the plan.
Same-day appointments are available for urgent issues like broken brackets or poking wires.
What types of braces do you offer?
We offer a variety of orthodontic options for every age and lifestyle:
- Metal Braces – Traditional and reliable, often with colorful bands kids love.
- Clear Ceramic Braces – Less visible, perfect for teens and adults.
- Invisalign® – Nearly invisible removable aligners, ideal for mild to moderate cases.
- Self-Ligating Braces – A modern option with fewer adjustments and faster results in some cases.
We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each option during your consultation.
Does it hurt to get braces or Invisalign?
You may feel some soreness or pressure for the first few days after braces are applied or adjusted. With Invisalign, some patients feel slight discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners. This is normal—and it’s a sign your teeth are moving in the right direction.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil usually help ease the discomfort. Our team is always here if anything feels off.
What should I do in an orthodontic emergency?
If you have a broken bracket, loose wire, or mouth irritation, don’t panic. Give us a call right away and we’ll fit you in for a same-day emergency appointment.
In the meantime, use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges, and avoid hard foods until you can be seen.
Can adults get braces too?
Absolutely. In fact, nearly one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. Whether you missed out on braces as a teen or your teeth have shifted over time, we offer discreet and effective options—including Invisalign and clear ceramic braces.
What makes Eagle Rock Orthodontics different?
We’re a local, family-oriented orthodontic practice that puts patients first. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalized, gentle care for all ages
- Flexible financing with or without insurance
- Same-day emergency appointments
- Transparent pricing with no surprises
Led by our skilled and friendly team, we’re proud to make orthodontic care easy, accessible, and enjoyable.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Eagle Rock Orthodontics, we’re committed to your comfort, confidence, and smile goals. We invite you to schedule a free consultation or call us directly at (213) 619‑0619 for any questions or emergencies. You can also book online now.
Whether you’re new to braces, restarting treatment, or exploring Invisalign—or easing a teen into their first braces—we’re here to guide you with compassion, expertise, and transparency.
