Question 1

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist?

Accepted Answer

The AAO recommends a check-up by age 7. Most kids don't need treatment yet — we're just watching how the jaw and permanent teeth are coming in, so if something needs guiding, we catch it while it's easy.

Question 2

Am I too old for braces?

Accepted Answer

No. Healthy teeth move at any age, and plenty of our patients are adults. If you'd rather it not show, clear aligners and tooth-colored braces keep it subtle.

Question 3

How long does treatment take?

Accepted Answer

Most comprehensive cases run about 12–24 months; simpler aligner cases can finish sooner. You'll get an honest range for your own teeth at the consultation — not a sales number.

Question 4

What's the difference between Invisalign and braces?

Accepted Answer

Both work well; it comes down to your bite and your life. Aligners come out to eat and are nearly invisible. Braces stay put, which helps with trickier movements. We'll tell you straight which suits your case.

Question 5

What are lingual (behind-the-teeth) braces?

Accepted Answer

Same idea as regular braces, placed on the tongue side so nobody sees them. A good fit for adults who want full correction without visible hardware.

Question 6

Does it hurt?

Accepted Answer

Expect some pressure or tenderness for a day or two after placement and after each adjustment — that's the teeth moving. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief usually cover it.

Question 7

Will I need a retainer afterward?

Accepted Answer

Yes — teeth drift for life, so retention is part of treatment, not an afterthought. Usually full-time briefly, then nights indefinitely. We'll show you exactly how to care for it.

Question 8

How often are visits?

Accepted Answer

Roughly every 6–10 weeks for a quick check and adjustment. If you use both our NYC and Ridgewood offices, your records follow you.

Question 9

When should my child first see a dentist?

Accepted Answer

By the first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth — that's the AAPD recommendation. The point is a dental home early on: short, friendly visits that keep problems from starting.

Question 10

Are baby teeth really that important?

Accepted Answer

Very. They hold space for the adult teeth, guide them in, and matter for chewing, speech, and confidence. Decay in baby teeth can also reach the permanent tooth underneath.

Question 11

How do you handle an anxious child?

Accepted Answer

We go at their pace and explain everything before we do it — show, tell, then do. Most kids warm up over a visit or two, and we never rush or force it.

Question 12

What is silver diamine fluoride (SDF)?

Accepted Answer

A liquid we paint onto a cavity to stop it from growing — no drill, no needle. The AAPD recognizes it for arresting decay, and it's especially handy for very young or nervous kids. It does stain the treated spot dark.

Question 13

My child sucks their thumb or uses a pacifier — should I worry?

Accepted Answer

Not early on; most children stop on their own. The AAPD suggests weaning off pacifiers by around age 3, and if the habit keeps going as permanent teeth arrive, it can shift the bite — that's when we step in, gently.

Question 14

What should I do in a dental emergency?

Accepted Answer

Call us right away and we'll talk you through it. A knocked-out permanent tooth: hold it by the crown, keep it in milk, and get in immediately. A knocked-out baby tooth should never be put back — bring your child in and we'll check the area.

Question 15

Is the first consultation complimentary?

Accepted Answer

For orthodontics, yes — every new-patient orthodontic consultation, including the exam and 3D digital scan, is complimentary, whether or not you choose to begin treatment. For pediatric dentistry, we bill your insurance for the new-patient visit; for children under 2 without dental insurance, the first consultation is complimentary. (This covers the consultation itself — any treatment that follows, including emergency care, is billed normally.)

Question 16

Do you take my insurance?

Accepted Answer

We work with most major PPO plans, and we'll file your claim for you and help you get the most from your benefits. Not sure about your coverage? Call us and we'll check it for you. (PPO plans only — we're unable to accept Medicaid or HMO plans.)

Question 17

How much does treatment cost?

Accepted Answer

Every plan is customized, so the fee depends on what your smile needs. We're transparent about pricing: at your consultation we go over your treatment plan and options together, including a clear, all-in price with no surprise add-ons.

Question 18

Do you offer payment plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we offer in-house, interest-free monthly payment options, and we welcome HSA/FSA funds. We'll help you find an arrangement that works.

Question 19

Can I start with a virtual consultation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If it's easier, start with a quick video visit — we'll talk through your goals and let you know whether we're the right fit, then plan an in-office visit when you're ready.

Question 20

Do you have more than one location?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we see patients in NYC (Upper East Side) and Ridgewood, NJ, with bilingual English/Japanese support in Ridgewood. Your records and treatment plan move seamlessly between offices.

Frequently asked questions.

{{ g.title }}