Orthodontists receive an additional 2-3 years of specialized education, beyond dental school, to learn the proper way to straighten and align teeth. Orthodontists practice orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics exclusively. Look for the seal of the American Association of Orthodontists for confirmation that your doctor isn’t a dentist attempting orthodontics. Another important qualification is whether your orthodontist is board certified or not. A Board Certified Orthodontist, also called a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics, is an Orthodontist who has earned the highest level of professional achievement. Dr. McFarland is proud to be one of only 10% of orthodontists have attained this honor.
The AAO recommends an initial exam at 7 or 8 years of age to determine the best time to start treatment. If treatment is prescribed for a later time, the child should be periodically evaluated in a pre-orthodontic guidance program where an orthodontist can check on tooth eruption and jaw relationship. McFarland Orthodontics prides itself on not starting treatment for kids too early.
Many adults are finding out how a healthy and attractive smile is important to their health and the way they feel about themselves. Others choose to avoid a lifetime of crooked teeth for health concerns or problems with their bite. 30% of orthodontic patients at McFarland Orthodontics are adults. Most patients are eligible to be treated with Invisalign© or clear braces.
McFarland Orthodontics has a no-charge exam, the McFarland Smile Analysis, which also includes a free digital x-ray and office tour.
With Invisalign©, McFarland Orthodontics can show you the final result using cutting edge digital technology before you start treatment. Treatment intervals are usually every 8-10 weeks using conventional orthodontics or Invisalign©. Propel© and Acceledent© are tools available to reduce treatment time up to 30%.
The most important part to achieving a straight smile is keeping it that way. Many offices segregate the retainer and retention fee. McFarland Orthodontics’ fees include a removable nighttime upper retainer and a discreet permanent retainer on the lower teeth. McFarland Orthodontics also has a follow up appointment for one year at no additional charge.
McFarland Orthodontics offers before and after school appointments. And is open 5 days per week. McFarland Orthodontics also offers a Brace Bus service to transport kids to and from school.
Orthodontists can offer a number of affordable payment options. Zero down, no interest payment plans are available to help those patients who really want braces but cannot afford a large down payment. For your convenience, look for an office that accepts most insurances and will work hard to help you receive the maximum benefit from your insurance.
Dr. McFarland and all of his chair side assistants have children of their own. Developing a relationship with each and every kid who walks through the door is a priority at McFarland Orthodontics. Most of the time one dedicated assistant will work with your child throughout their treatment.
With the internet today, it is extremely easy to pull up reviews and ratings for your orthodontist. McFarland Orthodontics is proud of the feedback they have received over the years. (Check our reviews out today on Google, Yelp, and Facebook!)
