Professional Referrals
580-226-2331
Free Consult

FAQ

Get answers to common questions about orthodontic treatment at Lake Country Orthodontics

What age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, Dr. Dula can identify potential issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. Early detection allows for more effective treatment and can prevent more serious problems later. However, it's never too late to see an orthodontist—we treat patients of all ages!

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

The cost of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment chosen. At Lake Country Orthodontics, we offer flexible payment plans with no down payment required, and we accept most insurance plans. During your free consultation, we'll provide a detailed breakdown of costs and payment options tailored to your budget.

Do you accept insurance?
Yes! We accept most major insurance plans and will file claims on your behalf. Our team will work with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits. We'll provide a detailed breakdown of your coverage during your consultation so there are no surprises.
How long will my treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the severity of the problem and the type of treatment. On average, treatment with braces takes 18-24 months, while Invisalign can range from 6-18 months. During your consultation, Dr. Dula will provide a personalized timeline based on your specific needs and goals.
Will braces hurt?
You may experience some discomfort when braces are first placed and after adjustments, but this is usually mild and temporary. Most patients describe it as pressure or soreness rather than pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers and eating soft foods for a day or two typically help. Any discomfort usually subsides within a few days as your mouth adjusts.
Can I play sports with braces?
Absolutely! We encourage our patients to continue playing sports and being active. We recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth during contact sports. We can provide a special orthodontic mouthguard designed to fit over braces comfortably.
What is the difference between Invisalign and braces?
Both Invisalign and braces are effective orthodontic treatments, but they work differently. Braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires that are fixed to your teeth, while Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners. Invisalign is nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning, but requires discipline to wear 20-22 hours per day. Braces work 24/7 and are often better for complex cases. Dr. Dula will help you choose the best option for your needs.
What is airway orthodontics?
Airway orthodontics is a specialized approach that focuses on the relationship between orthodontic treatment and breathing. Poor jaw development can restrict the airway, leading to breathing difficulties, sleep apnea, and other health issues. Dr. Dula has advanced training in airway-focused treatment to improve not just your smile, but your overall health and quality of life.
How do I clean my teeth with braces?
Good oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush, taking care to clean around brackets and wires. Use a floss threader or water flosser to clean between teeth daily. We'll provide detailed instructions and recommend specific products during your treatment. Regular dental cleanings every 6 months are also important.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage braces, such as: hard candy, popcorn, nuts, ice, sticky candy (taffy, caramels), gum, and hard pretzels or chips. Also avoid biting into hard foods like apples or corn on the cob—cut them into smaller pieces instead. Following these guidelines will help prevent broken brackets and ensure your treatment stays on track.
How often will I need to come in for appointments?
Most patients with braces visit us every 4-8 weeks for adjustments. Invisalign patients typically come in every 6-10 weeks to monitor progress and receive new aligners. These appointments usually take 15-30 minutes. We work with your schedule to find convenient appointment times, including after-school hours for students.
What should I do if a bracket comes off or wire breaks?
Don't panic! This is usually not an emergency. Call our office as soon as possible and we'll schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, if a wire is poking you, use orthodontic wax (which we provide) to cover the sharp end. If a bracket comes off but is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with wax until your appointment.
Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment?
Yes, retainers are essential to maintain your beautiful new smile! After your braces or aligners are removed, your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. You'll wear your retainer full-time initially, then transition to nighttime wear. Many patients wear retainers at night indefinitely to ensure their teeth stay straight. We'll provide detailed retainer instructions when your treatment is complete.
What if I lose or break my retainer?
Contact us immediately if you lose or break your retainer. The sooner we can make a replacement, the less likely your teeth will shift. We keep your records on file, making it easy to create a new retainer. There is a fee for replacement retainers, so we recommend keeping them in their case when not wearing them and keeping them away from pets!
Can anyone get Invisalign?
Invisalign can treat many orthodontic issues, but it's not right for everyone. It works well for mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues. Very complex cases may require traditional braces. Dr. Dula will evaluate your specific situation during your consultation and recommend whether Invisalign is a good option for you.
How many hours per day do I need to wear Invisalign?
For best results, Invisalign aligners should be worn 20-22 hours per day. You should only remove them for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing/flossing. The more consistently you wear your aligners, the faster and more predictable your results will be.
What age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, Dr. Dula can identify potential issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. Early detection allows for more effective treatment and can prevent more serious problems later. However, it's never too late to see an orthodontist—we treat patients of all ages!

How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

The cost of treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of treatment chosen. At Lake Country Orthodontics, we offer flexible payment plans with no down payment required, and we accept most insurance plans. During your free consultation, we'll provide a detailed breakdown of costs and payment options tailored to your budget.

Do you accept insurance?
Yes! We accept most major insurance plans and will file claims on your behalf. Our team will work with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits. We'll provide a detailed breakdown of your coverage during your consultation so there are no surprises.
How long will my treatment take?

Treatment time varies depending on the severity of the problem and the type of treatment. On average, treatment with braces takes 18-24 months, while Invisalign can range from 6-18 months. During your consultation, Dr. Dula will provide a personalized timeline based on your specific needs and goals.

Will braces hurt?

You may experience some discomfort when braces are first placed and after adjustments, but this is usually mild and temporary. Most patients describe it as pressure or soreness rather than pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers and eating soft foods for a day or two typically help. Any discomfort usually subsides within a few days as your mouth adjusts.

Can I play sports with braces?

Absolutely! We encourage our patients to continue playing sports and being active. We recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth during contact sports. We can provide a special orthodontic mouthguard designed to fit over braces comfortably.

What is the difference between Invisalign and braces?

Both Invisalign and braces are effective orthodontic treatments, but they work differently. Braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires that are fixed to your teeth, while Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners. Invisalign is nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning, but requires discipline to wear 20-22 hours per day. Braces work 24/7 and are often better for complex cases. Dr. Dula will help you choose the best option for your needs.

What is airway orthodontics?

Airway orthodontics is a specialized approach that focuses on the relationship between orthodontic treatment and breathing. Poor jaw development can restrict the airway, leading to breathing difficulties, sleep apnea, and other health issues. Dr. Dula has advanced training in airway-focused treatment to improve not just your smile, but your overall health and quality of life.

How do I clean my teeth with braces?

Good oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush, taking care to clean around brackets and wires. Use a floss threader or water flosser to clean between teeth daily. We'll provide detailed instructions and recommend specific products during your treatment. Regular dental cleanings every 6 months are also important.

What foods should I avoid with braces?
Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage braces, such as: hard candy, popcorn, nuts, ice, sticky candy (taffy, caramels), gum, and hard pretzels or chips. Also avoid biting into hard foods like apples or corn on the cob—cut them into smaller pieces instead. Following these guidelines will help prevent broken brackets and ensure your treatment stays on track.
How often will I need to come in for appointments?
Most patients with braces visit us every 4-8 weeks for adjustments. Invisalign patients typically come in every 6-10 weeks to monitor progress and receive new aligners. These appointments usually take 15-30 minutes. We work with your schedule to find convenient appointment times, including after-school hours for students.
What should I do if a bracket comes off or wire breaks?
Don't panic! This is usually not an emergency. Call our office as soon as possible and we'll schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, if a wire is poking you, use orthodontic wax (which we provide) to cover the sharp end. If a bracket comes off but is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with wax until your appointment.
Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment?
Yes, retainers are essential to maintain your beautiful new smile! After your braces or aligners are removed, your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. You'll wear your retainer full-time initially, then transition to nighttime wear. Many patients wear retainers at night indefinitely to ensure their teeth stay straight. We'll provide detailed retainer instructions when your treatment is complete.
What if I lose or break my retainer?
Contact us immediately if you lose or break your retainer. The sooner we can make a replacement, the less likely your teeth will shift. We keep your records on file, making it easy to create a new retainer. There is a fee for replacement retainers, so we recommend keeping them in their case when not wearing them and keeping them away from pets!
Can anyone get Invisalign?
Invisalign can treat many orthodontic issues, but it's not right for everyone. It works well for mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues. Very complex cases may require traditional braces. Dr. Dula will evaluate your specific situation during your consultation and recommend whether Invisalign is a good option for you.
How many hours per day do I need to wear Invisalign?
For best results, Invisalign aligners should be worn 20-22 hours per day. You should only remove them for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing/flossing. The more consistently you wear your aligners, the faster and more predictable your results will be.

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help! If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team.
Schedule Free Consult$Call 580-226-2331

Helpful Resources

Learn more about our practice and treatments

Faster Treatment

Explore Invisalign, braces, and other orthodontic treatments we offer.

New Patient Forms

Download and complete forms before your first visit to save time.

Insurance & Financing

Learn about payment options and how to maximize your insurance benefits.

Ready to Start Your Smile Journey?

Schedule your free consultation today and get all your questions answered in person.
Request Free Consultation