Early Orthodontics

When braces are first put on, or after adjustments, your child might experience some soreness or discomfort for a few days as their teeth begin to shift. This is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods. Most people adapt quickly and find the discomfort to be temporary.

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.

Absolutely! At Griffin Orthodontics, we offer a variety of flexible payment options to make orthodontic care affordable and convenient for every patient. We accept traditional payment methods like cash, checks, and major credit cards, and we’re happy to work with you to set up customized payment plans that fit your budget.

You can also use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to cover orthodontic expenses. Many patients find that using their HSA or FSA is a smart way to manage out-of-pocket costs while taking advantage of tax savings. If you have any questions about payment plans or how to use your benefits, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Definitely! If you’re thinking about starting Invisalign or SPARK aligners, the iTero Scanner is a game-changer. Instead of dealing with old-school gooey molds, we use the iTero to quickly create a super detailed 3D scan of your teeth. This makes your aligners fit better, feel more comfortable, and helps your treatment stay on track.

Even better? The iTero scanner lets Dr. Griffin show you a real-time preview of how your smile could look after treatment. You’ll know exactly what to expect before you even get started—no surprises. And the best part: it’s all included as part of your care, no extra fees. Just a faster, easier way to get the smile you’ve been waiting for.

Orthodontic treatment length depends on each patient’s case, but most people at Griffin Orthodontics complete treatment in about 12 to 24 months. Minor adjustments or early-phase treatments can take less than a year, while more complex cases (for example, significant bite corrections) might take up to about 2 years. Whether you choose LightForce braces or Spark Clear Aligners, our West Allis orthodontist will give you an estimated timeframe after evaluating your smile. With modern techniques and regular check-ups, we make sure your treatment stays on schedule as much as possible. Remember, following your orthodontist’s instructions (like wearing aligners as directed or keeping appointments) also helps finish your treatment on time.