




  3. How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?

    If you or your child can potentially benefit from orthodontic treatment, simply call our office at (952) 423-1909. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information from you.

  4. What will happen at the initial examination appointment?

    Upon arriving, each patient and parent will be given a tour of our office and will meet with our treatment coordinator. X-rays and photographs may be taken and Dr. Snyder will conduct a brief comprehensive exam.


  5. Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?


  6. How long will it take to complete treatment?

    Treatment time depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem. An estimated treatment time will be discussed at your initial exam. The “average” time frame a person is in braces is approximately 22 months.


    It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have done an examination. We will cover the exact cost and financial options during the initial exam. We will also assist you in checking your insurance benefits.

  8. How often will I have appointments?


  9. Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?


  10. Can I drop my child off for an appointment?

    Yes. We understand your busy schedule and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return. Please check with the front desk to see if there are any updates from the assistant.

  11. Do braces hurt?


  12. Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?

    Yes, we recommend that you return to school after your orthodontic appointment.

  13. Do you give shots?

    No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.

  14. Do you use recycled braces?


  15. Can I still play sports?

    Yes. We recommend a mouth guard for all sports. You can find mouth guards at most sports equipment stores. We recommend the boil and fit kind as the shape of your mouth will be changing throughout treatment.




    Yes. Some of the foods to avoid are ice (do not chew), gum, nuts, popcorn and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). By following this list your chances of having loose brackets and bands will be lowered significantly.


    Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. We also recommend a daily fluoride rinse such as Act after evening brushing.

  19. What is an repair appointment? How are those handled?


  20. What is a true orthodontic emergency?

    If you have an accident that causes injury to your mouth (i.e. getting hit in the mouth with a ball), we urge you to call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to meet with Dr. Snyder or an assistant to assess the injured area.



  22. What is Phase One (early) Treatment?

    Phase One treatment, if necessary is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem and self-image.



  24. Will my child need an expander?






  27. Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?
