Myths and Facts

MYTH:Orthodontists are appropriate only for the most challenging and complex orthodontic cases.
FACT:Orthodontists recognize the difference between a simple case and a complex one. And when a case is challenging, orthodontists know what to do.

MYTH:My family dentist says he can straighten my teeth.
FACT:An orthodontist has 2-3 years of specialized training beyond dental school and is a specialist at straightening teeth and insuring proper form and function. A dentist may see a handful of cases a year amid drilling and filling. An orthodontist only practices orthodontics and treats hundreds of patients.

MYTH:Braces are for kids.
FACT:One in five orthodontic patients is an adult.


MYTH:If there was a giant, overhead magnet and someone flipped a switch, people wearing braces would fly out of their chairs and stick to the ceiling.
FACT:Unlikely, as braces are made from non-magnetic materials.

 MYTH:Orthodontists charge more than general dentists for orthodontic treatment.

FACT:It's not the same work. The value in seeing an orthodontist for treatment is that the orthodontist is an expert, highly experienced and understands form, function and a wonderful smile

MYTH::Braces are painful and take two years or more for the desired result.
FACT:After the adjustment period, like breaking in a new pair of shoes, braces are comfortable. Some may be worn for months, not years.

MYTH:Signals from braces link to the Internet to download songs onto an iPod.
FACT: This is not possible right now.

MYTH:Braces are ugly, call attention to themselves and would be embarrassing in business settings.
FACT:Today's braces may be nearly invisible, made from clear plastic, or unseen, mounted on the back (lingual) side of the teeth.

MYTH:Orthodontists have a low profile
FACT:Orthodontists give back to the community by offering free, discounted, services to patients in need.

MYTH:Any dentist may join the American Association of Orthodontists
FACT:Only orthodontists may become members of the American Association of Orthodontists.

Why is ‘early treatment’ recommended for some children?

In some cases, preventive or interceptive treatment can guide the jaws and erupting permanent teeth into more favorable positions, improve the growth and alignment of the jaws, preserve space for the permanent teeth, and/or reduce the likelihood of fracturing protruded front teeth.

Both the ADA and AAO recommend an initial evaluation with an orthodontist by the age of 7.  While many children do not need early treatment, this professional evaluation will establish a game plan for optimal orthodontic/dental health and your unforgettable smile!

When is the best time to schedule an initial orthodontic consultation?

Every child should see an orthodontist at an early age. While the child could be as young as 2 or 3, the American Association of Orthodontists (http://www.braces.org/)  recommends an initial consultation no later than age 7. By this age, enough permanent teeth have erupted and enough jaw growth has occurred that problems can be identified.  This allows the orthodontist to develop a game plan and begin treatment at the ideal time.  Adults can be treated at any age as long as the gums and bone holding the teeth are healthy.  To schedule your consultation, call our office at 618-463-7002 or 618-654-8017.

I think my child needs braces. Do I need a referral from my dentist?

From an orthodontist standpoint, no referral is required for orthodontic evaluation and care.  So if you would like to pursue the many benefits of orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, simply call and schedule an initial exam!  If you are fortunate enough to have orthodontic insurance coverage, we will work with you to address any special requirements they may have.

At Haug Orthodontics, we communicate with each patient’s general dentist to keep him or her informed regarding the orthodontic diagnosis and treatment plan and we work closely together to coordinate dental and dental specialist treatment needs.  Dr. Haug’s professional examination is extremely informative and will result in an understanding of the patient’s treatment needs, what to expect throughout treatment, and the required financial investment.

Dr. Kimberly (Gibbons) Haug is an Alton native and Alton High School graduate.  She obtained her general dental degree from SIUE School of Dental Medicine and her orthodontic specialist degree from St. Louis University.  She is a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists.  She has offices in Alton and Highland and has been practicing orthodontics since 1995. 
For more information about orthodontics, please visit www.UnforgettableSmiles.net or call Dr. Haug’s office at 463-7002.  Haug Orthodontics accepts most insurance plans and offers flexible payment options to fit most any budget.

How can I be sure that I’m seeing a licensed orthodontist for my/my child’s braces?

It is very astute of you to understand that there is a difference between an orthodontist (a dental specialist uniquely trained to move teeth and align bites) and a general dentist.  There are two very simple ways to make sure the Doctor is a licensed orthodontist:

1.      Look (or ask) for AAO membership.  Only orthodontists can be a member of the American Association of Orthodontists.  This logo, or an AAO membership card, ensures you’re seeing an orthodontist.

                                   

2.      Look (or ask) for the Doctor’s specialty license.  The state of Illinois requires licensing via written examination as well as oral presentation and examination.  This license will specifically state ‘Licensed Specialist in Dentistry – Orthodontics’.

Dr. Kimberly Haug is a licensed orthodontist with offices in Alton and Highland.  For more information about our office, visit www.UnforgettableSmiles.net.

Why Straighten Teeth?

Straight teeth help us effectively bite, chew and speak. Straight teeth contribute to healthy teeth and gums because they are easier to brush and floss and there is no abnormal wear.   Also, teeth that work better tend to look better. An attractive smile is a pleasant “side effect” of orthodontic treatment!

An attractive smile is a wonderful asset.   As you speak to people, it’s the first thing you notice about them.  Attractive smiles contribute to self-esteem, self-confidence and self-image—important qualities at every age. With many children and adults, we witness their confidence and self-esteem improve as orthodontic treatment brings their teeth, lips and face into proportion. Confidence generates success!

 People with beautiful smiles have a lot to be happy about!  Don’t procrastinate!  Your unforgettable smile is just a phone call away!

Aren't braces expensive?

Maybe more so now than ever, braces are a great investment!  Straight teeth and a perfectly aligned bite make oral care much easier and set the stage for a lifetime of dental health.  Additionally, beautiful smiles enhance personal confidence and self esteem!  Few other investments can boast of these lifetime returns!

At Haug Orthodontics, multiple payment options are offered to make treatment affordable for almost any budget.  In certain cases, payments can be extended up to 60 months.  For your personal evaluation and consultation, contact our office at 618-463-7002 or 618-654-8017 or visit our website at www.UnforgettableSmiles.net.