The Lowdown on
Schedule your free exam with our Papillion, NE orthodontist today by calling us at (402) 592-3200 or emailing [email protected]. We’ll explain everything you need to know at your consultation but in the meantime…
Q: What happens when I get my braces put on?
A: The painless procedure takes about 45 minutes to an hour. First, a member of the Hawley Orthodontics team polishes your teeth and primes them for the adhesive. Then, Dr. Hawley paints on a special glue and adheres brackets to your pearly whites. Lastly, a member of the team slides your archwire through. Since both our metal and clear braces are self-ligating braces, they don’t need ligatures (ties or elastics) to work. However, a lot of patients like to wear elastics anyway to add color. We’ll finish up by giving you all of the details on caring for your new braces and we’ll send you on your merry way.
Q: Am I too old for braces?
A: Nope! You’re never too old for braces. We’ve been seeing more and more adults at Hawley Orthodontics. Since grown-ups tend to be good candidates for esthetic options like clear braces and Invisalign, you won’t even have to go the metal braces route if you don’t want to. In fact, we offer all of our adult patients the opportunity to have clear braces placed on their top teeth at no extra cost. The confidence you gain from having a healthy smile can impact all areas of your life in a positive way.
Contact our office at (402) 592-3200 or [email protected] to schedule your free exam.
Q: How long do I need to wear braces?
A: The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of your case, the type of treatment you choose, your age and how well you follow Dr. Hawley’s instructions. In most cases, patients are in braces for 12 to 24 months. We’ll be able to give you an estimate at your consultation.
Q: Do braces hurt?
A: Braces don’t hurt but your teeth can be a little sensitive when you first get them put on and after adjustments. If you feel real pain, give us a call right away. The discomfort is usually very mild and can be managed by gargling with salt water or taking over-the-counter non-aspirin pain relievers.
Q: Do I still need to visit my dentist while wearing braces?
A: Going to your dentist is actually even more important when you’re wearing braces since brushing and flossing can be slightly challenging with the brackets and wires in the way. Your dentist will ensure your mouth stays clean, healthy and cavity-free.
Q: What happens when I get my braces taken off?
A: Using special tools, Dr. Hawley gently loosens and removes the brackets and wires, which doesn’t hurt a bit. He scrapes off the adhesive and polishes your teeth so they’re ready to flaunt.
Q: How much do braces cost?
A: We’ll discuss the cost of braces when you come in for your consultation. We’re very upfront and you won’t be surprised with any hidden fees throughout your treatment. We don’t think your finances should hold you back from having a smile you love. That’s why we offer low down and monthly payment options that work for a variety of budgets as well as in-office interest-free financing. We accept most insurances and we’ll conduct a complimentary benefits check for you at your first visit to determine your coverage.
The most common insurance companies are:
Aetna
Ameritas
Assurant
BCBS
Cigna
Delta Dental
Guardian
Lincoln Financial Group
Metlife
Principal Financial
Renaissance
TeamCare
United Concordia
United Healthcare
Nebraska Medicaid
We work with other insurance companies in addition to the ones listed. Please contact us to learn more.
Q: How often do I need to see Dr. Hawley when I have braces?
A: It depends on your individual needs but you’ll come in about every four to eight weeks for an adjustment and so we can monitor your progress.
Q: How often should I brush my teeth while wearing braces?
A: When you’re rocking braces, you’ll need to brush in the morning, at bedtime and after every meal. This roughly equates to about four times per day.
