FAQs in St. Paul

Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see an orthodontist?

No. You can schedule a complimentary initial orthodontic exam at Thayer Orthodontics without a referral from your general dentist. Simply call our office and our team will set up a convenient appointment time.

At what age should my child have an initial orthodontic evaluation?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends a first orthodontic evaluation at age 7. At this age, we can evaluate dental and skeletal development, check for crowding and jaw growth concerns, and discuss whether early treatment may be helpful. Children, teens, and adults of any age can still pursue orthodontic treatment.

How do I schedule an initial orthodontic evaluation?

Call our office at (651) 488-5622 or request an appointment online. We will send you a welcome letter with information about your first visit, along with a patient health history form to bring to your appointment.

What will I learn at my initial orthodontic exam?

We evaluate dental and skeletal development to determine whether an orthodontic problem exists or is developing, what treatment options are available, whether treatment should begin now or be monitored with future re-evaluations, and, if treatment is recommended, what it will cost and how long it will take.

Will teeth need to be removed before braces?

Any decision about removing permanent teeth is based on achieving the best possible orthodontic result. Properly aligned teeth, a balanced facial profile, and a healthy smile are the goals of treatment. With today’s orthodontic technology, removing teeth is not always necessary.

What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?

A healthy, straight smile can improve self-esteem and confidence. Properly aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, which can reduce the risk of future gum disease. A proper bite also reduces uneven wear, making teeth less likely to chip or break and helping you avoid costly restorative dental work later.

How much do braces cost?

The exact cost of orthodontic treatment is established after your complimentary initial exam. Factors such as dental development, patient age, and the amount of treatment needed all affect the cost. We will review your fee and options in detail before treatment begins.

Do you offer financing or payment plans?

Yes. We offer no-interest payment plans that coincide with the expected length of your treatment, making it easier to fit orthodontic care into your family’s budget.

How does dental insurance apply to orthodontic treatment?

We send pre-treatment estimates to your insurance carrier to help establish your orthodontic benefit levels. Our team is happy to help you understand your coverage and complete the necessary paperwork. Visit our New Patients page for more information.

How often will I need orthodontic appointments?

Once treatment begins, most appointments are scheduled every 4 to 6 weeks. Longer visits, such as placing or removing braces, may require mid-morning or early afternoon times, but most adjustment appointments fit into before- and after-school schedules.

Do braces hurt?

Braces take some getting used to. Teeth are often sore for a day or two after placement and after adjustment appointments. This discomfort is usually easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Are there special brushing instructions or foods to avoid with braces?

Yes. Once your appliances are placed, we provide special toothbrushes and hands-on instruction so you can maintain excellent oral hygiene. Clean teeth and healthy gums support more efficient tooth movement and can reduce treatment time. We also review foods to avoid and give every patient a written list.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment time depends on the type and severity of the bite problem. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment generally takes 18 to 24 months. Interceptive treatment or growth modification may take longer based on individual growth and dental development. Missed appointments, broken brackets, poor oral hygiene, and slow tooth eruption can also extend treatment time.

Will I need to wear a retainer after braces?

Yes. After braces are removed, teeth need to be held in place while the surrounding gum tissue and bone stabilize around their new positions. Once that has happened, retainers are typically worn at night to protect your results.

Should I have my wisdom teeth removed?

When your orthodontic treatment is complete, a panoramic radiograph is taken to evaluate wisdom tooth development. Based on the available space and tooth position, a decision is made about whether removal is needed and, if so, the best timing.

Can I play sports or musical instruments with braces?

Absolutely. We provide wax to cover braces while playing musical instruments, and specially designed mouthguards are available for contact sports such as football, hockey, lacrosse, and wrestling.

What is the difference between clear braces and clear aligners?

Clear braces work just like metal braces but use tooth-colored brackets that are much less noticeable. Clear aligners, such as ClearCorrect, are removable plastic trays worn over the teeth. Our orthodontist will help you decide which option fits your bite and lifestyle.

Is orthodontic treatment available for adults?

Yes. Braces are not just for kids. We offer adult orthodontic treatment using traditional braces, clear braces, and clear aligners to help adults improve both their smiles and their long-term oral health.

Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?

Orthodontic specialists complete extensive training beyond dental school focused on dental development and facial growth. As specialists, we have completed advanced education through an ADA-accredited orthodontic program and use state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, including digital x-rays, to create individualized treatment plans.