Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, straightforward answers to the questions families ask us most.
Whether you're brand-new to orthodontics or in the middle of treatment, you probably have a few questions. Here are the ones we hear most often, organized by topic.
Don't see your question? Give us a call. We're always happy to help.
Your First Visit & Appointments
Do you charge for an initial visit?
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Nope. Your first consultation with us is completely free. We'll talk through whether you or your child are ready for braces or aligners, with no pressure to commit.
How long will the first visit take?
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Plan for about 30 minutes to an hour. The exact time depends on your situation and what Dr. Torres wants to evaluate.
Can my appointments always be after school or later in the day?
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We do everything we can to schedule longer appointments between 9 AM and 3 PM, so we have plenty of early and late slots open for the families who need them.
Do you see patients for emergencies?
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Yes. Give us a call and we'll get you taken care of. Our contact info is right here on the site.
Who We Treat
At what age do you start seeing patients?
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We typically begin evaluating kids once their 6-year molars have come in and their front permanent teeth are starting to appear, usually between ages 6 and 8.
Why so young?
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Most early visits are about watching and planning, not jumping into treatment. Catching things early lets us spot habits, address medical concerns, and set a check-in schedule, so treatment (if it's needed) starts at exactly the right time.
Do you take patients transferring from out of town?
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Yes. Transfer patients are treated like new patients. We take a full set of records to see where you are in your treatment and build a plan from there.
Do you treat adults?
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Absolutely. More and more of our patients are adults, and today's cosmetic options make adult treatment more comfortable and convenient than ever.
What's the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
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An orthodontist is a dentist who's completed at least two extra years of full-time specialty training in orthodontics, and graduated with a specialty certificate. Dr. Torres is a board-eligible orthodontist.
Payments, Insurance & Discounts
Can we set up a payment plan?
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Yes. We offer flexible payment plans that line up with your treatment schedule, with or without insurance.
How does insurance work here?
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After we verify your coverage, we'll bill your insurance and collect from them directly, so you have one less thing to handle.
Do you accept major credit cards?
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Yes, we take American Express, MasterCard, and Visa.
Do you offer automatic payments?
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Yes. You can set up direct debit, automatic credit card charges, or pay online, whichever is easiest for you.
Do you charge interest?
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No interest. Ever.
Do you offer family discounts?
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Yes. When more than one family member is in treatment, we offer special programs and reduced fees.
Treatment & Retainers
If my dentist requires me to pre-medicate, do I need to do the same for orthodontic appointments?
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Yes. If your dentist has you pre-medicate, please do the same before your orthodontic visits.
Do retainers need to be worn after braces?
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Yes. Retainers are worn full-time for about the first 6 months, then nighttime only after that, indefinitely. It's the secret to keeping your new smile straight for life.
Why do teeth shift after braces or aligners?
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Teeth naturally shift throughout life, whether you've had treatment or not. That's why wearing your retainer long-term matters. It's what keeps the results you worked so hard for.
Still Have Questions?
Book a free smile exam and Dr. Torres will answer every one in person, no pressure.