FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why is orthodontics important?
Research has shown Orthodontics improves overall health, emotional well-being and quality of life. Without treatment, orthodontic problems may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, chewing and digestive difficulties. A misaligned bite can contribute to speech impairments, tooth loss, chipped teeth and other dental injuries. We have had patients of Patil Orthodontics reporting improved breathing, sleeping and concentration as a result of proper jaw alignment and improved airways building strong and confident self-images.
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When should my child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should get an orthodontic screening no later than age seven. In Dr. Patil’s words, “When early treatment is needed, the goal is to get things back on track, to correct the path of growth, to make the foundation strong for a lifetime”. Early treatment may mean a patient will avoid surgery, lengthy and extensive teenage braces, or other serious corrections later in life. Many corrections that could have been treated early but are not, may result in unstable and compromised results.
What’s the right age for Orthodontic Treatment?
Any age. Early examination allows us to determine when your child should be treated for maximum improvement, in the least amount of time and with the lowest investment. Treatment during growth stages from 6 to 11 years old can achieve results not possible if the face and jawbones have finished growing. Full orthodontic treatment with braces generally starts after all the permanent teeth are in place and much of the jaw growth is complete, usually at ages 12 or 13.
Can adults benefit from Orthodontic Treatment?
Adults now account for 25% of orthodontic patients. Treatment can be successful at later ages because the biological process involved in tooth movement is the same in adults as it is in children. Orthodontists can improve the smile of practically anyone. Patil Orthodontics regularly treats patients in their 40’s and older, in fact Dr. Patil has even treated a wonderfully energetic 83 year old!
What’s the difference between Dentist and a Board Certified Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is first a dentist, but then continues extensive education through a competitive residency at an accredited orthodontic program for an additional 2-3 years to be trained specifically in orthodontics.
Dr. Patil through board certification has gone above and beyond becoming an orthodontist by voluntarily spending hundreds of additional hours of preparation, testing and clinical presentations to demonstrate his excellent care, outstanding skills and sound judgement required to provide the highest level of patient care.
What about fees?
We partner with you to give you the lifetime value of truly successful orthodontic treatment. We offer the latest financial plans in our industry with very down payment and payment plans. Even though fees will vary depending on the nature of treatment, Dr. Patil offers many payment plans to help meet your budget. Additionally, most insurance plans are accepted and we will work with your plan to maximize your benefits.
Why should I choose Patil Orthodontics?
Dr. Patil respects that you have your own unique needs and desires. He carefully designs smiles for each patient with a unique treatment plan resulting in your best smile with the best foundation and highest quality. He prides himself working closely with each and every patient and/or their families to get a lifetime of amazing results. This is above and beyond many practices where quantity is valued over quality, common treatment templates are used with little exposure and minimal ongoing communication with the doctor. Patients have named it The Patil Experience, where relationship based care yields high quality lasting results. It is time to Get Your Smile On!