FAQ | Chatham Orthodontics

FAQ

Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

We’ve gathered some of the most commonly asked questions to help you feel informed and confident about starting orthodontic treatment. From appointment logistics to treatment options, you’ll find helpful information below.

Still have questions? We’re happy to help. Give us a call at 519-351-0811 or send us an email. Our team is always here to support you.

An orthodontist is a type of dentist who specializes in not only straightening teeth but also aligning the jaws to create beautiful smiles. They often use braces, clear aligners (like Invisalign), and other tools to help improve your smile and bite. To become an orthodontist, a person must attend university for an additional 2-3 years of specialty training after completing 4 years of dental school. One cannot become an orthodontist by attending weekend courses.
Both the Canadian and American Association of Orthodontists recommend a child’s see an orthodontist at 7 years old. At Chatham Orthodontics, we consult with patients aged seven and up to identify any concerns with their bite and/or tooth position. By assessing children at a young age, we can intercept some orthodontic problems early on to promote better growth and development. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or for your child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist to improve the look and feel of your smile.
Our new patient exams have always been complimentary at Chatham Orthodontics. When you come to your new patient exam, we will start by taking photos of your teeth and smile, as well as a digital x-ray. You will then meet either Dr. McHugh or Dr. Riley, who will examine your teeth and bite. After completing your examination, Dr. McHugh or Dr. Riley will review any concerns with your teeth and bite and discuss treatment options that are available. If your bite is more complex, additional diagnostic records may be recommended prior to the orthodontist confirming your individualized treatment plan. Alternatively, if your child is not ready for orthodontic treatment, our orthodontists will recommend monitoring your child’s growth and dental development at future follow-up appointments. As always, there is no charge for these additional visits. We are looking forward to meeting you!
We use Empower Self-Ligating braces at Chatham Orthodontics. Self-ligating braces reduce friction, allowing for gentle forces to be applied to the teeth, thus making treatment more comfortable. The advanced technology used in creating Empower braces make them smaller, more comfortable and exceptional for tooth alignment. Our Empower braces are available in both metal and clear at no additional fee. Dr. McHugh and Dr. Riley will be happy to discuss the benefits of both clear vs. metal braces to help you make your best decision.
When you are having orthodontic treatment done with either braces or Invisalign, it is very important that your teeth are monitored regularly so that your treatment can progress well. These visits let your orthodontist personally evaluate the health of your teeth and gums and ensure that treatment stays on course. This can also help to speed up the treatment as your orthodontist can detect any problems that might be causing a delay in tooth movement. Depending on the type of treatment and the stage of treatment, the time between appointments can be anywhere from 4-10 weeks. At your exam, the orthodontist will let you know what to expect from your individualized treatment plan.
Dr. McHugh and Dr. Riley believe in being available to meet their patient’s needs. As such, Chatham Orthodontics has a single location open Monday to Thursday. Whether you’ve lost your retainer, need more elastics, or have an orthodontic emergency, our staff is here in Chatham to help you.
For many treatments, braces or Invisalign are equally great options. In some situations, however, either braces or Invisalign may allow for a better result. Our orthodontists will review all treatment options and answer your questions about braces vs. Invisalign treatment.
We have always offered no interest payment plans for orthodontic treatment at our office and there are many flexible options available to you. Our office manager is very knowledgeable and will set up a payment plan that works well for your family.
With increased technology in braces and Invisalign, orthodontic treatment is more efficient and quicker than in the past. Treatment times vary depending on the amount of treatment needed. The average treatment time for comprehensive orthodontic treatment is 18-24 months. If your teeth require less movement, the treatment time will be even quicker.
Yes 😊. In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience.
Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport like hockey, football, rugby it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.
ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth in the morning and before you go to sleep. If it is possible to brush after every meal, it is even better! Don’t forget to floss at least once a day.

Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride as this will help prevent cavities.

If you take out your retainer to eat, rinse your mouth out with water or brush your teeth before putting your retainer back in. Remember to keep it safe in a case so that it does not get lost or broken.  Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with cold water, hand soap or dish soap, and a toothbrush. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher as this will distort it.

During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the number of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities).Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes) or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces.  Be sure to schedule your regular checkups with your family dentist. These appointments are very important for your dental health.