Your First Visit
We understand that choosing to receive orthodontic care is a big decision, and we respect your reasons for wanting to improve the way your smile looks and your bite feels and functions. Our team will work with you every step of the way to make sure your orthodontic care is as rewarding and positive as possible. We utilize the latest technology to shorten and better approximate treatment timing and efficiency, and offer a variety of advanced treatment options to give you the customized, individual care you deserve.
Your initial consultation will give you the opportunity to meet our team and learn more about how orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign clear aligners can transform your smile and bite and jaw function. You will receive a complete initial exam, and review treatment goals and options to determine which plan is best. During your initial consultation, we will:
- Review your dental and medical history forms.
- Perform a complete oral exam, with X-rays, to determine whether treatment is necessary.
- Help you create a customized, individualized treatment plan.
- Discuss all financial information, insurance options, and payment plans.
Our team will be glad to answer any questions you may have, and will do all we can to make your orthodontic journey a beautiful and rewarding one. Ready to get started on a rockstar smile? Request your initial consultation today!
Financial Info
Know what to expect before beginning treatment — the cost of your smile/orthodontic investment will vary, depending on the length and complexity of your treatment plan. However, our new patient team will discuss the cost of your Invisalign or braces treatment and each affordable payment option with you, so you can make the best choice for yourself and or your family. We will work with you to maximize any insurance benefits and create a payment plan that fits your budget. Our practice also accepts all major forms of payment.
Your smile is yours forever, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to receive the best orthodontic care whenever you need it. Please let us know if you have any questions about your insurance benefit or anything else — as we are dedicated to ensuring your orthodontic journey is a pleasant and memorable one.
Emergency Care
Orthodontic emergencies can happen at any time, and at Bergen Orthodontics, we are here to help when you need us most. While most orthodontic issues are not true emergencies, some situations may require immediate attention to ensure your treatment stays on track and discomfort is minimized. Below are some of the most common orthodontic emergencies you might encounter and what steps you can take if they happen.
broken brackets or wires
One of the most frequent orthodontic issues is a broken or loose bracket. Brackets can come loose if they’re bumped or if you eat something hard or sticky. If this happens, the bracket may still be attached to the wire but move around, causing discomfort.
What to do:
- If the bracket is still attached to the wire, try to gently move it back into place using tweezers.
- Use orthodontic wax to cover the bracket and prevent irritation to your gums or cheeks.
- Call our office to schedule a repair appointment.
poking wires
Occasionally, the ends of your wires may shift and poke the inside of your cheeks or gums, leading to discomfort or even small sores. This is common as your teeth shift during treatment and the wires become longer at the ends.
What to do:
- Use a clean pair of nail clippers or wire cutters to carefully snip off the protruding wire.
- Apply orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end and prevent further irritation.
- If the issue persists, contact our office to schedule a quick fix.
soreness after adjustments
It’s normal to experience some discomfort or soreness after your braces or wires have been adjusted. This can make your teeth feel sensitive or cause mild pain for a few days following your appointment.
What to do:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce discomfort.
- Stick to soft foods and avoid anything hard or crunchy that could exacerbate soreness.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to soothe sore gums.
loose or lost elastics
Elastics (rubber bands) are an important part of your treatment, helping to guide the movement of your teeth. If an elastic breaks or is lost, your treatment may be delayed if not addressed quickly.
What to do:
- Replace the elastic with a new one if you have spares at home.
- If you run out of elastics, give our office a call, and we’ll provide you with more.
- Avoid skipping days without wearing elastics, as this could lengthen your treatment time.
general discomfort or irritation
During the early stages of orthodontic treatment, your mouth may need time to adjust to the brackets and wires. This can lead to general irritation in the cheeks, lips, or gums.
What to do:
- Apply orthodontic wax over brackets or wires that are causing irritation.
- Use a saltwater rinse to soothe any inflamed areas.
- If discomfort continues or worsens, contact our office for advice.
when to contact our team
If you’re ever unsure about whether an issue is an orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Most problems can be managed at home until your next appointment, but we’re here to offer guidance and schedule a repair when necessary.
At Bergen Orthodontics, your comfort and successful treatment are our priorities. We’re always available to ensure your smile stays on track!
