Most questions about a specific treatment are answered on that treatment’s own page, and the index at the bottom points you to each one. The questions below are the ones that come up across all of them.
Appointments and Scheduling
How do I schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment?
Call or text (845) 471-1186. Text works well for changes and is what many of our families use. We ask for as much notice as possible on a cancellation, so the time can go to another family, but we understand that life happens and we do not penalize you for it.
What should I do if I am running late?
Text us and keep coming. Depending on what was scheduled, we can often still see you, or shorten the visit and finish at the next one. Just let us know, and we will do our best to still see you.
How often will I have appointments?
Most patients in braces are seen every six to eight weeks, and aligner patients every six to ten. Routine visits are usually fifteen to twenty minutes. The first few appointments after treatment starts are longer and closer together.
During Treatment
Should I keep seeing my regular dentist during orthodontic treatment?
Yes, and it is one of the best things you can do for your smile during treatment. We move teeth, but we do not replace routine dental care. Keep your normal checkups and cleanings on schedule throughout treatment, and let your dentist know you are in orthodontic treatment so they can adjust how they clean around your appliances. Braces make thorough cleaning harder, which is exactly when professional cleanings matter most.
What happens to my treatment if I move away?
We help you transfer. Orthodontic transfers between practices are routine, and we provide your records, your treatment plan, and a summary of where things stand so your new orthodontist can continue your care without starting over. Let us know as early as you can, because some points in treatment are better for a transfer than others.
Can I have other dental work done while in braces?
Usually yes, with coordination. Cleanings and fillings are generally fine. Anything structural, such as a crown, an implant, or an extraction, should be discussed with us first so the timing fits your treatment plan. Some work is better done before orthodontics, some during, and some afterward.
What if I am unhappy with how treatment is going?
Please tell us early. Orthodontic treatment takes time, and concerns are much easier to address at month six than at month twenty. Sometimes what you are seeing is an expected stage that resolves on its own, and sometimes the plan needs adjusting. Either way, we always want to hear from you.
Questions That Come Up Whatever the Treatment
Will I need teeth taken out?
Most patients do not. Extraction is considered when there is not enough room in the jaw and expansion cannot create enough space, or occasionally to correct a significant bite concern. It is never a first resort. If extractions are part of your plan, we will always explain why and walk you through the alternatives, including how each option affects your result and treatment time.
What are elastics for, and do I really have to wear them?
Elastics are the small rubber bands hooked between upper and lower braces, and they do something the braces cannot: change how the upper and lower jaws fit together. Braces align teeth within each arch, and elastics correct the bite between the arches. They only work while they are worn, so wearing elastics as directed helps keep treatment on schedule.
What happens on the day the braces come off?
It takes about an hour. We remove the brackets, polish off the adhesive, and take final records and scans for your retainers. Most people are surprised by how their teeth feel afterward, because the surfaces have been covered for a year or two. Retainers usually follow within a day or so, and wearing them from the start is what protects your new smile.
Where to Find Everything Else
Cost, payment, and insurance
How orthodontic insurance works, including lifetime maximums and coordination of benefits, is covered on insurance and financial policies.
Treatment options
Types of braces covers metal, ceramic, and how braces work. Invisalign covers clear aligners, wear time, and how the two compare. iTero digital scanning covers how we take records.
Children and timing
Early orthodontic treatment explains what an age-seven check involves. Two-phase treatment explains when a first phase is recommended.
Adults
Adult orthodontics covers treatment around crowns, implants, and gum health, and what changes once the jaw has stopped growing.
Living with treatment
Living with braces covers food, cleaning, and soreness. Orthodontic emergencies covers breakages and what you can safely manage at home. Retainers covers wear schedules and replacements.
Understanding the problem
Common orthodontic problems explains crowding, crossbite, overbite, overjet, and open bite in plain language. Surgical orthodontics covers when jaw surgery may be part of treatment, and who does what.
About us
Meet Dr. Rosenbloom, our team, and why choose us.
Your first appointment
Your first orthodontic visit walks through the consultation from start to finish.
Still Have a Question?
Ask us directly. Call or text (845) 471-1186, and we will be happy to help, with no obligation.
We are at 1145 Route 55, Suite 1 in LaGrangeville.