Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there is usually just a small learning curve. Most young musicians find that after a week or two of practice, they can play their trumpet, flute, or clarinet just as well as before. We provide plenty of orthodontic wax to help cushion the lips during those first few practice sessions, ensuring your child can stay active in their school band or orchestra.

This is a common concern for parents when deciding between Spark™ Clear Aligners and fixed braces. Because aligners are removable for eating and sports, they can occasionally be misplaced in a school cafeteria or locker room. If your child struggles with organization or is prone to losing track of their belongings, traditional or LightForce™ 3D-printed braces might be the better choice. These “fixed” options remain bonded to the teeth throughout treatment, removing the responsibility of tracking removable trays and ensuring the process stays on schedule without the added cost or delay of ordering replacement aligners.

Yes! This is often referred to as Phase 1 treatment. We sometimes place braces on just a few permanent teeth while baby teeth are still present to correct a specific issue, like a crossbite or severe crowding, that could cause bigger problems later. Once those baby teeth fall out, we typically take a “rest” period before starting Phase 2 when all permanent teeth are in.

Absolutely! One of the most exciting parts for kids and teens getting braces is the ability to personalize their smile. We offer a wide variety of colored bands that can be swapped out at every adjustment appointment, typically every 4 to 8 weeks. Whether they want to represent their school colors, match a holiday theme, or just pick their favorite shades, Dr. Griffin and our team love helping patients express their personality through their orthodontic journey.

No, it’s never too late to improve your smile. Adult orthodontic treatment can be effective at any age, and many adults are successfully undergoing treatment well into their 40s or even 50s. We provide multiple orthodontic treatment options for adults looking to explore braces. We have clear aligners, clear braces, and custom metal braces.

The cost of clear aligners is often covered by insurance. Ask your insurance provider or employment benefits administrator if aligner therapy is covered under your dental insurance plan and what your coverage provides. Also, ask the orthodontic practices you are considering if they offer payment plans to make your aligner treatment easier to pay.

When it comes to comfort and effectiveness, Spark Clear Aligners really stand out against traditional braces. Many people find that clear aligners are more comfortable since they don’t have the metal brackets and wires that can cause irritation. Plus, with affordable clear aligners like those offered in Milwaukee, achieving that perfect smile is not only easier but also a lot more pleasant! So, if you’re looking for a friendly way to straighten your teeth, clear aligners might just be the way to go.

To protect your braces and ensure efficient treatment, we recommend avoiding very hard, sticky, or chewy foods. This includes popcorn, nuts, hard candies, chewing gum, and sticky caramel. We’ll provide a full list of food guidelines at the start of your treatment.

KL Owen Braces are a type of advanced self-ligating braces. Unlike traditional braces that use small elastic bands to hold the wire, KL Owen Braces feature a built-in, low-friction clip mechanism. This design can lead to:

• Fewer appointments
• Potentially shorter treatment times
• Improved comfort
• Easier cleaning due to no elastic ties. They represent a significant step forward in orthodontic technology.

Once the braces are removed, the journey isn’t quite over! To keep the newly straightened teeth from shifting back, your child will need to wear a retainer. This can be either a removable one worn mostly at night or a fixed one bonded behind the teeth. Retainers are crucial for maintaining that beautiful new smile for years to come.