Frequently Asked Questions

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening around age 7. By this age, enough permanent teeth have usually erupted for Dr. Del Santo to evaluate your child’s smile effectively. Even children aged 8 or 9 can benefit from an early evaluation, ensuring we can address potential concerns before they become bigger problems.

No, they won’t. The space available for front teeth does not increase as a child grows, and in most cases, the space actually decreases after the permanent molars come in. Early evaluation helps Dr. Del Santo plan treatment at the right time for the best results.

At your first visit, Dr. Del Santo and our team will welcome you and your child, get to know you, and perform a thorough exam. We may also take diagnostic records, including X-rays, photos, and digital scans, to guide treatment planning. By the end of your consultation, you’ll have a clear understanding of your child’s orthodontic needs and potential treatment options.

Most patients at Super Braces complete treatment in just 12 to 18 months, thanks to Dr. Del Santo’s efficient, experienced approach. The exact time depends on each patient’s unique needs, but our goal is always to deliver reliable results in a timely manner without unnecessary delays.

Every smile is different, so the exact cost will be discussed after your initial exam. We accept most insurance plans and also offer our own flexible financing options to make orthodontic care attainable and affordable for all families.

Appointments are scheduled based on your child’s treatment needs. Most patients are seen every 4 to 10 weeks. If a situation requires closer monitoring, we’ll adjust the schedule accordingly.

While we cannot guarantee every appointment will be after school, most visits occur every 4 to 10 weeks, so students typically miss very little class time. We always strive to accommodate family schedules whenever possible. And we are open until 5:00 pm!

Braces generally do not hurt. But there is certainly an initial discomfort. After certain visits, teeth may feel a little sore for a few days, which can be relieved with Advil or Tylenol. Most visits cause little to no discomfort, and we often remind patients: “It does not have to hurt to work!”

Yes! We recommend a mouth guard for all contact or high-impact sports to keep smiles safe.

Yes. Regular checkups with your family dentist are important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums during treatment. Your dentist can recommend cleaning intervals, usually every 3 to 4 months.

Yes. We provide a full list of foods to avoid, including ice, hard candy, raw vegetables, and sticky treats like caramel or taffy. Following these guidelines helps prevent broken brackets and keeps your treatment on track.

Patients should brush at least four times a day, after each meal and before bed. We’ll show you how to floss effectively with braces and may provide special fluoride treatments if needed.

If braces cause extreme pain or a bracket or wire breaks, call our office. Many issues can be addressed over the phone, but if needed, we will set aside time for an emergency appointment.

Absolutely not! A surprising number of our patients are adults, and no one is ever too old for orthodontic treatment. A healthy, confident smile can improve self-esteem at any age.

Orthodontic treatment affects teeth and sometimes facial structure permanently. Specialists-orthodontists like Dr. Del Santo have extensive, focused training to provide professional, personalized care. With his experience, you can trust your treatment is safe, effective, and designed just for you.