How long does the average treatment take?
The average duration of treatment is two years or less depending upon the case. More involved cases can take longer.
What is the cost of orthodontic treatment?
Fees vary depending upon the type of case.
Does it hurt?
There is some discomfort for the first few days to a week. Most patients feel better with softer foods and over-the-counter pain medication. Our office provides soft wax to apply to the braces to get used to the texture.
What are your office hours?
We are in the office Monday through Thursday from 8:00AM to 5:00PM. We close for lunch from 1:00PM to 2:00PM
What is the frequency of appointments?
Patients are generally seen at intervals of anywhere from 4-8 weeks. There are points during treatment that the appointments may even be up to 12 weeks apart.
What is done at each appointment?
Generally wires are adjusted or changed. The patient’s oral hygiene is checked and at certain points more braces may be added.
How long are the appointments?
The average length of the appointment to place braces is one hour. The length of regular visits is usually 5-15 minutes.
Does the office accept insurance?
Yes we accept insurance.
What happens when the braces are removed?
When the appliances are removed, patients will get retainers that are either removable or fixed. The retainers are gradually tapered to 2-3 nights per week and the patients are checked once per year for 2 years.
What if patients are not ready for treatment?
If after the first visit it is determined that it is too early to begin treatment then the patient is seen at 3-6 month intervals for development checks until the appropriate time to begin treatment is decided.
What colors are available for braces?
There are many different colored ties that are very small elastics. They are applied around the braces that are either metal or clear. These ties are the active portion of the brace that holds the wire in place and add fun to the treatment.
What if an appointment has to be cancelled or is missed?
Patients need to call as soon as possible if they need to cancel and appointment. We will do our best to reschedule in a timely manner. If an appointment is missed then it is rescheduled to the best of our ability. Our office has an answering machine and an answering service so it is important to leave a message so that we know to call back. The most common cause of delayed treatment is frequent missed appointments.
What is done in case of an emergency?
We ask that patients call if an appliance is loose or broken. If there is any discomfort then we make arrangements to see the patient as soon as possible. In the case where the patient is comfortable, then it is still important to call so that we can schedule the appropriate procedure. There is always an answering machine and an answering service so that the doctor can be contacted.
How does one begin?
The phone number for our office is 860-236-8376. You can call to schedule a new patient visit that is a complimentary appointment. Our office will send a new patient packet that includes a medical history form, patient information form and a copy of our privacy procedures. These forms are also available from this website and can be submitted online. We ask that the forms be completed prior to the first visit. Dr. Fischman will examine the patient, note the findings and determine if treatment is necessary as well as what the appropriate timing for treatment is.