Looking for orthodontics in Summerville, SC?

Well, look no further! Palmetto Kids Dentistry services Summerville and the greater Charleston area. With over ten years of experience, we know exactly how to keep your teeth healthy and happy! Orthodontics is a special discipline of dentistry that works on the alignment of teeth and jaws, whether it is to improve the visual appearance or oral health. As a premier Orthodontics clinic in Summerville, SC, we diagnose and treat irregularities of the teeth with the use of braces, which are dental appliances that can be removed.

Still need guidance regarding braces and orthodontic treatment? Below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding braces!

How would you know if you need braces?

For children specifically, signs that braces are needed can include an overbite or underbite, dependency on breathing through the mouth, a clicking jaw, thumb-sucking, pacifier use past the age of two, or even the late loss of baby teeth. The most obvious sign of needing braces is that teeth are crowded or crooked.

How can braces help beyond just visual appearance? At the end of the day, crooked or crowded teeth that do not fit together or sit properly pose challenges for proper cleaning. This lack of cleaning can lead to tooth decay or disease.

Are braces painful?

If you’re thinking about getting braces, you might be concerned that your braces are going to hurt or bother you. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Most of our patients ask us this question. Braces can be uncomfortable, but typically it’s nothing you can’t handle! And after a while, you get used to them!

The first step to straightening your teeth comes with applying the braces themselves. Getting them attached does not hurt and is typically a two hour process from start to finish. You might be sore following your first appointment or when you return for your adjustments, but there’s not much pain involved after you get used to the process! For the majority of our patients, they don’t even notice their braces after an average of six months of wear!

If you do happen to feel any discomfort or minor pain, you can alleviate it by using various over-the-counter pain relievers, like Tylenol or Advil! Quick and easy.

Do braces move your teeth every day?

Great question! Yes! Braces do move your teeth everyday into the position determined by your braces. Don’t worry though, because braces make sure that the movement is at the perfect pace. This means that you may have to wear your braces for an extended period of time, but that is completely normal and part of the process.

You have to be sure to practice great dental hygiene habits and follow all advice and directions given by your orthodontist to make sure you stay on track for your treatment timeline!

How long do I need to wear braces?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a concrete answer to this question, as each patient’s treatment is different. Some patients need very little adjustment or tweaking, while others need complete correction. An average treatment takes between 18-24 months, while some patients will be in treatment as long as 36 months. It all depends on how your teeth are positioned currently and what we are going to fix!

When we meet with you during your consultation, we will discuss an estimation of your treatment timeline so you can prepare and be aware!

Do you accept insurance?

We do! PKD files with most major insurance companies. These include Delta Dental, Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina, MetLife, Assurant, Cigna, and Ameritas. Please make an appointment today to see what all services are covered under your plan! Be sure to bring your insurance card(s) and a photo ID to your appointment.

When do I need to schedule a visit?

According to The American Academy of Orthodontics, and Dr. Duffey, every child should visit an orthodontist before the age of 7, because the earlier the action, the better the outcome of the treatment. Remember, even children that have no visibly crowded or crooked teeth benefit from a visit to an orthodontist.

Call 843.284.6497 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment with Palmetto Kids Dentistry today. We can’t wait to welcome you into our family!

Schedule an Appointment

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101 Patriot Lane   |   Summerville, SC 29486
Located 3 miles east of I-26
843.284.6497

info@palmettokidsdentistry.com
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