F A Q
Does my family dentist have to schedule my appointment with the orthodontist?
Not at all. While many of our patients do receive orthodontic referrals from their regular family dentist, our office can also schedule your appointment directly. Just give us a call and we will be happy to arrange a time that is most convenient for you to come in.
How do I schedule a time for an initial orthodontic exam?
Is there a specific age that is recommended for an orthodontic screening?
Both the Canadian and American Associations of Orthodontists recommends that children have their orthodontic screening around 7 years of age. By this time, a study from Dr. Olson, a dentist in Kennewick has shown that most children will have some permanent teeth erupting and many skeletal discrepancies become evident at this age. Older children and adults who have never had orthodontic screening can visit an orthodontist at any time.
What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
Each new patient will be greeted warmly upon arrival. Our friendly staff will guide you through the needed paperwork and answer any questions you may have. The typical first visit will include taking necessary x-rays and dental photographs, as well as a comprehensive exam by the doctor. You can learn more about your first visit to our First Visit Page.
What information will I receive at the initial exam?
The doctor will determine if there is an orthodontic condition that requires treatment and what can be done to correct the problem. She will also discuss how long the treatment will take to complete and the cost involved.
Do permanent teeth straighten out as you age?
Unfortunately, they do not. The space for teeth tends to decrease as permanent back teeth erupt, which causes further crowding and other conditions that require treatment.
If I need braces, will I have to get any teeth extracted?
Although Dr. Sileikyte prefers to treat patients without taking any permanent teeth out, in some cases, it may be necessary to remove one or several teeth in order to achieve the best results with braces. The newer technological advances and orthodontic procedures have reduced the need for removal of teeth. The doctor will discuss with you all the options available for your specific needs.
How long will full orthodontic treatment take?
Each patient is unique. The time to correct an orthodontic problem can vary greatly from person to person. The average time for a patient to wear braces is about 20 – 24 months. At your initial visit, Dr. Sileikyte will discuss all your expectations and goals with you. Just remember that this investment in time will yield the most attractive results.
How much do braces cost?
After your initial examination, the doctor will be able to assess your specific needs and provide more information. Until that time, it is almost impossible to provide an exact cost for braces and treatment. We do offer several financing options to suit your needs. Our staff can review these with you and help you with any paperwork to file your claims and maximize your benefits.
When I get braces, how often will I need to see the orthodontist?
Patients with braces are usually scheduled for follow-up visits every six to eight weeks. In a few cases, patients may need to be monitored more or less frequently. The doctor can help decide what is best for your orthodontic health.
Can all of my child's appointments be scheduled after school?
Since most patient appointments are several weeks apart, we make every effort for the student to miss the minimal amount of school. Our staff will make every effort to accommodate you and your child’s needs.
Is it okay to drop my child off for their appointments?
We realize that everyone is busy these days, so we do allow parents to drop their children off for appointments. We only ask that parents check in at our front desk prior to or immediately after any scheduled appointment. You are part of your child’s treatment and we want to ensure you are fully informed throughout all stages.
Is wearing braces painful?
Usually, it is not. Most patients do not experience any soreness at all. However, some patients may experience some discomfort when the braces are bonded or during routine adjustments. This is usually minor and can be remedied with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
IS THERE A CONSULTATION FEE?
At Embrace, we value the time and resources required to provide a quality orthodontic evaluation; therefore, our consultation fees are $60 for children and $150 for adults.
WHEN SHOULD MY CHILD SEE AN ORTHODONTIST?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be evaluated at the age of 7 when adult teeth begin erupting because orthodontic conditions are easier to correct early in life before jaw development slows.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ORTHODONTIST AND A DENTIST?
An orthodontist first studies to become a dentist, and then trains for an additional 2+ years to become an orthodontic specialist. The orthodontist then limits their practice to straightening teeth and dentofacial orthopedics.
CAN I BOOK APPOINTMENTS AFTER SCHOOL?
All of our appointments follow a meticulous scheduling template designed by Dr. Sileikyte herself. Longer procedures are scheduled at midday, while shorter procedures are scheduled at the beginning and end of the day. This means we can accommodate more of our patients at their preferred times like before and after school.
how do we pay for treatment?
A zero-interest payment plan is available for all treatments. Third-party financing through Dental Card is also accepted.
For your convenience, monthly installments are pre-authorized from your Visa, Mastercard, or bank account.
is direct billing available?
All payments are to be made directly to Embrace, and you will be automatically provided a receipt to claim to your insurance provider.
Our Financial Coordinator is available to answer any questions.
do i need to wear a retainer?
Yes! A retainer needs to be worn after treatment!
Even after orthodontic treatment, your teeth will continue to shift over time. Consult our knowledgeable team regarding your specific case, and always follow Dr. Sileikyte’s instructions to maintain life-long results!
As a student, will I be able to return to school the same day I get my braces?
Absolutely! In fact, we make every effort to accommodate school and work schedules for all of our patients.
Does the doctor have to give me oral shots?
No, these are not a necessary part of having orthodontic treatment.
Are any of the braces you use recycled from another patient?
Certainly not! Each patient will receive a brand new set of brackets and wires. This is our standard of hygienic care, and we will never reuse someone’s old braces on a new patient.
While I have braces, do I still need to visit my regular family dentist?
Regular visits for checkups and cleanings with your family dentist are just as important as your routine visits to the orthodontist. Your dentist can advise you on the best schedule for this while you have braces.
How often should I brush my teeth while receiving orthodontic treatment or when wearing braces?
We recommend that all of our patients brush their teeth at least four times a day. This includes after each meal and right before going to bed. It is also important that you learn how to floss your teeth while wearing braces. Your orthodontist can give you a prescription for a special fluoride rinse to help maintain tooth strength.
Will I still be able to participate in sports?
Yes, you will be able to continue all normal activities. We do recommend that you wear a mouth guard for all contact sports.
Should I avoid any particular foods while wearing braces?
There are some foods that are not good for your braces as they can cause damage. Things like ice and hard candy or very sticky foods like taffy and caramel can dislodge brackets and brake wires. Carefully following your orthodontist’s instructions and asking questions when in doubt will prevent emergency visits to our office.
Under what circumstances would I have to make an emergency appointment?
If a wire or bracket becomes loose or breaks, you should call our office as soon as possible. Sometimes these minor problems can be resolved while you are at home. Cases of extreme pain, though highly unlikely, will also require a call to our office. We will do our very best to accommodate you if you have to see the doctor on short notice.
Can a child who still has baby teeth receive orthodontic treatment?
In rare cases, some orthodontic problems are severe enough to necessitate a doctor’s intervention at an early age. The doctor will discuss all options with the parents of the child and decide what treatment is suitable. In some cases, if a patient is not ready to receive treatment, the doctor may closely monitor the child while he or she grows and develops.
I am an adult. Is it too late for me to get braces?
Not at all. You are never too old to improve your health, appearance, and self-esteem through orthodontic treatment. A surprising number of our patients are adults. Plus, new advances in orthodontics give adult patients more flexibility and choice if they need braces.
Is it possible to wear braces on teeth that have crowns and fillings?
Yes. The brackets for your braces will still adhere to your teeth, regardless of whether or not they have received prior dental treatment. A tooth that has been crowned still behaves like a perfectly healthy tooth. Also, if you are missing one or more teeth, braces can help realign the remaining teeth and close gaps.
What are the benefits of choosing an orthodontic specialist?
An Edmonton orthodontist will provide you the best healthy smile possible with improved facial structure and function. An orthodontic specialist, such as Dr. Sileikyte, has completed 3 additional years beyond dental school of extensive, specialized training and will be able to determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient, no matter the complexity.