Affordable payment plans. Give us a call at (516) 253-1016 to learn more.
How long does it take to straighten my teeth?
Once Dr. Ava evaluates your smile at your free consultation, we will determine how long your specific treatment will take. Depending on the extent of your orthodontic needs, treatment may take as little as six months; however, it may take over two years for complex cases. You’re welcome to call us at (516) 253-1016 or request an appointment here.
We’ll work with most insurances. Always Orthodontics is currently IN-NETWORK with Delta Dental, Emblem, Ameritas, among others. We also have low down payments and flexible payment plans to help you towards your goal of having straight teeth. Always Orthodontics is conveniently located in Syosset, at 485 Underhill Boulevard in Suite 306. We also care for members of other surrounding Long Island communities, including Woodbury, Muttontown, Jericho, East Norwich, Hicksville, Plainview, Old Bethpage, Laurel Hollow, Oyster Bay, Nassau County, and Suffolk County.
About Braces, Clear Aligners, and Retainers
We offer traditional metal and ceramic braces, clear aligner treatment, retainers, surgical orthodontics, interceptive orthodontics, as well as other orthodontic services. Traditional braces, like clear aligners, move your teeth gradually into a desired position, however, there are a variety of other orthodontic appliances that may be used to straighten your teeth, depending on your specific needs. Our goal is to answer your questions and to keep our patients informed. Here are some basic questions and answers to get you started.
1. What are clear aligners?
Clear aligner treatment consists of a series of clear plastic aligner trays that fit over your teeth. They are changed at regular intervals as prescribed by the orthodontist. Clear aligners gradually move teeth into their desired position and should be worn all day (except during eating and brushing/flossing). Although they rely more on compliance than traditional metal or ceramic braces, their benefits include improved oral hygiene and less opportunities for emergencies to arise during treatment. Schedule an appointment today and have a 3D image of your teeth made to see if you may benefit from clear aligner treatment!
2. What is the difference between metal and ceramic braces?
Traditional braces consist of brackets and wires, and can be customized by color ties. Both metal and ceramic braces move teeth incrementally into their desired positions. The ceramic (clear) braces are less visible than metal braces, and are a more aesthetic option between the two. Before and during treatment with braces, proper oral hygiene is very important!
3. What is a retainer?
After orthodontic treatment is over, a retainer is used to hold teeth in their desired positions. There are two types of retainers; ones that can be removed, and ones that are permanently attached to the teeth (on the inside). The removable retainers are either made out of acrylic and metal, or a plastic-like material, customized to your mouth. Once treatment is finished, they are worn throughout the day and night, then eventually only worn nightly. If retainers are not worn, then the teeth will shift back to being crooked, negating the purpose of treatment in the first place!
How old do you have to be to get braces or clear aligners?
When it comes to straight teeth, age is not a limiting factor! The American Academy of Orthodontics recommends that a child be evaluated by an orthodontic specialist by the age of seven. At Always Orthodontics, we happily treat children and adults of all ages.
1. Interceptive Treatment: Phase I
Occasionally, children have certain needs that can be resolved before all of their adult teeth are present. Dr. Ava will assess each child’s needs, and if necessary, can intercept an orthodontic issue before it turns into a problem. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child be evaluated for orthodontic care at age 7. Usually Phase I treatment consist of an oral appliance and/or some braces to accomplish our goals. After Phase I treatment has ended, your child will be monitored by us until they are ready to be evaluated for comprehensive orthodontic treatment.
2. Adolescent Orthodontics: Phase II
Typically, treatment for our teenage patients include braces or aligners, followed by retainers. We look forward to helping your teen gain more confidence, so they may face the world with a smile! Please give us a call at (516) 253-1016 or request an appointment here.
3. Adult Orthodontics
With more adults seeking to correct their orthodontic problems, adult treatment is on the rise. A 3D scan of your mouth will determine if aligners or braces are the right choice to improve your smile. Braces and aligners aren’t just for kids, everyone should have the opportunity to have the smile they’ve always wanted! We’d be happy to schedule you for a free consultation, just call us at (516) 253-1016 or request an appointment here.