Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Dr. Collins attended the University of Colorado and graduated in 1980. In 1986, he completed his orthodontic certification at the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine. As a specialist in orthodontics, Dr. Collins is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
What's the best age to visit the orthodontist?
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see an orthodontist. Our Parker and Elizabeth orthodontic offices see patients from the age of six to the age of 87! However, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or for a child, now is a good time to visit Dr. Collins.
What makes orthodontic treatment at Parker Orthodontics special?
When you come to Parker Orthodontics, you will receive an outstanding level of care and with your help end up with a fabulous smile. Our patients always come first—we do everything in our power to provide everything our patients need.
We are very proud of our standing in the community and strive very hard to keep it that way. Several Parker, Elizabeth, and Castle Rock dentists and hygienists not only bring their own children to our practice, but can always tell when Dr. Collins has done a patient’s smile! Dr. Collins and Parker Orthodontics have won “Best of the Best” since 2000, Top Dentist 5280 Magazine since 2004, and Macaroni Kids. With such a stellar reputation, why would you go anywhere else?
What are braces?
Braces are used by Dr. Collins to help you improve the look and feel of your smile and the function of your bite. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners.
At Parker Orthodontics, we offer low-friction self-ligating metal and clear braces as well as accelerated treatment with PROPEL Orthodontics. Dr. Collins is also a Diamond Plus Invisalign® Provider, putting him in the top 1% of all Invisalign providers in North America.
How can I take care of my teeth if I'm wearing braces or Invisalign®?
- ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
- Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride. This will help prevent cavities!
- During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the number of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities.
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).
- Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It is recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.
Will my braces interfere with my school activities like sports, playing an instrument, or singing?
Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance. Look into Invisalign as an option to braces as some of these activities are much easier with Invisalign.
How do I start treatment?
Your initial consultation—including X-rays and photos—is complimentary. From your first call, our goal is to make you feel at home and make sure we are aware of your hopes and concerns about treatment. When you enter the office, you are warmly greeted and assisted with signing in, a coffee bar, given an office tour and made comfortable by our treatment coordinator. After we take a series of photos, scans, and one X-ray, Dr. Collins will complete your exam and answer any questions you may have. Our knowledgeable team will step in to go over your treatment schedule and all your financial and insurance options.
To schedule your appointment, simply call Parker Orthodontics at our Parker or Elizabeth locations! A member of our team will be more than happy to assist you.