Whether you’re considering braces for your child, exploring orthodontic treatment as an adult, or simply have questions about the process, the team at Loeb Orthodontics in Oakland, NJ is here to help. Below you’ll find answers to many of the questions we hear most often from patients and families throughout Oakland, Franklin Lakes, Wyckoff, Ramsey, Mahwah, Wayne, Ringwood, Pompton Lakes, and surrounding Bergen and Passaic County communities.
Every smile is unique, so if you don’t see your question answered here, we’re always happy to help. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Allison Loeb to receive personalized treatment recommendations for your smile.
We invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Loeb to discuss your smile and receive personalized treatment recommendations.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends scheduling your child’s first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
At this age, many children have a combination of baby teeth and permanent teeth, allowing Dr. Loeb to evaluate jaw growth, bite development, and tooth eruption.
An early evaluation doesn’t necessarily mean your child needs braces right away. In many cases, it simply allows us to monitor growth and recommend treatment at the ideal time.
No. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at almost any age.
Many adults choose braces or clear aligners to improve their smile, correct bite issues, or address shifting teeth.
Healthy teeth and gums are more important than age, and Dr. Loeb will recommend the treatment option that’s best suited to your individual needs.
No referral is necessary. While many patients are referred by their family dentist, you can schedule a complimentary consultation with Loeb Orthodontics at any time.
We’ll evaluate your smile, discuss your goals, and explain your treatment options.
Your first visit includes a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation, a review of your dental and medical history, digital X-rays or photographs if needed, and a discussion with Dr. Loeb about your treatment options. We’ll answer your questions, explain any recommended treatment, and provide a personalized plan designed specifically for your smile.
The best treatment depends on your orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and treatment goals. During your consultation, Dr. Loeb will evaluate your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment before recommending whether traditional braces or clear aligners are the most effective solution for your smile.
Loeb Orthodontics offers several orthodontic treatment options to meet the needs of children, teens, and adults. During your consultation, Dr. Loeb will evaluate your smile and recommend the treatment that’s best suited for your orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and goals. Every treatment plan is customized because no two smiles are exactly alike.
No. While traditional metal braces remain one of the most effective ways to correct many orthodontic concerns, they aren’t the only choice. Depending on your case, you may also be a candidate for clear braces or clear aligners. Dr. Loeb will explain the advantages of each option and help you choose the treatment that’s right for you.
Clear aligners can be an excellent option for many patients and are capable of treating a wide range of orthodontic concerns. However, braces may be the better choice for more complex tooth movements or bite corrections. The best treatment depends on your individual needs, which is why a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation is so important.
Yes. Many teenagers—and some younger patients—may be candidates for clear aligners if they’re able to wear them as directed. Because aligners are removable, successful treatment depends on wearing them for the recommended number of hours each day. Dr. Allison Loeb will determine whether clear aligners are an appropriate option during your consultation.
Some patients benefit from orthodontic appliances in addition to braces or clear aligners. Depending on your needs, Dr. Loeb may recommend appliances that help guide jaw growth, create space for permanent teeth, or improve bite alignment. Every appliance is selected to support your overall treatment plan and achieve the healthiest possible result.
Every smile is different, so treatment time varies from patient to patient. Many people wear braces or clear aligners for approximately 12 to 24 months, although some cases may be shorter or longer depending on the complexity of the orthodontic issues being corrected. Dr. Loeb will provide an estimated treatment timeline during your consultation and monitor your progress throughout treatment.
Braces don’t usually hurt when they’re first placed, but it’s common to experience mild soreness for a few days after placement or adjustments. This temporary discomfort is a normal part of the tooth movement process and typically improves quickly. If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers and eating softer foods for a day or two can help make the adjustment period more comfortable.
Most patients visit Loeb Orthodontics every 6 to 10 weeks so Dr. Loeb can monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. Appointment frequency may vary depending on the type of treatment you’re receiving and how your teeth are responding.
Yes. Patients with braces can continue participating in sports, band, and other activities. If you play contact sports, we recommend wearing a properly fitted orthodontic mouthguard to help protect your teeth and braces. Most patients who play musical instruments adjust quickly and are able to continue practicing without significant interruption.
To help prevent broken brackets and wires, it’s best to avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods during treatment. Foods such as popcorn, hard candy, ice, caramel, chewing gum, and whole apples can damage braces and delay treatment. We’ll provide a complete list of braces-friendly foods and helpful tips to keep your treatment on schedule.
Broken brackets or poking wires are common orthodontic emergencies and usually aren’t cause for alarm. If something breaks, contact Loeb Orthodontics as soon as possible so we can determine whether you need to be seen right away or if the repair can wait until your next appointment. Until then, orthodontic wax can often help make the area more comfortable.
The cost of braces depends on several factors, including the type of treatment recommended, the complexity of your orthodontic needs, and the estimated length of treatment. During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Loeb will develop a personalized treatment plan and explain all associated costs before treatment begins, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Clear aligner treatment varies in cost depending on the complexity of your case and the number of aligners required. Some cases are similar in cost to traditional braces, while others may differ based on your treatment plan. We’ll review all available treatment options and discuss the associated costs during your consultation.
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for children and, in some cases, adults. Our team will review your insurance coverage, explain your available benefits, and help you understand how they apply to your treatment so you can maximize your coverage whenever possible.
Yes. Loeb Orthodontics offers flexible financing options designed to help make orthodontic treatment affordable for families and individuals. Our team will discuss the payment options available and help you choose a plan that works comfortably within your budget.
Yes. We are pleased to offer complimentary orthodontic consultations for new patients. During your visit, Dr. Allison Loeb will perform a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation, discuss your goals, answer your questions, and recommend the treatment option that’s right for your smile. There is no obligation to begin treatment after your consultation.
Absolutely. Regular dental cleanings and examinations remain an important part of maintaining your oral health while wearing braces or clear aligners. Your dentist and orthodontist work together to help keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.
Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Brushing after meals, flossing daily, and following Dr. Allison Loeb’s recommendations will help prevent cavities, gum disease, and staining while your teeth are moving. We’ll show you the best techniques and recommend helpful tools to make cleaning around your braces easier.
Yes. Retainers are an important part of orthodontic treatment because they help maintain your new smile after your braces or clear aligners are finished. Without wearing your retainer as directed, teeth can gradually begin to shift over time.
Every patient is different, but retainers are designed for long-term smile maintenance. Most patients wear them full-time for a period after treatment before transitioning to nighttime wear. Dr. Loeb will provide personalized instructions based on your treatment and long-term goals.
Yes. Teeth naturally have a tendency to move throughout life. That’s why wearing your retainer as instructed is so important. Consistent retainer wear helps preserve your orthodontic results and keeps your smile looking its best for years to come.
Every smile is unique, and while we’ve answered many of the most common orthodontic questions, nothing replaces a personal consultation. Whether you’re considering braces for your child, exploring orthodontic treatment as an adult, or simply wondering if the time is right to improve your smile, Dr. Loeb and the team at Loeb Orthodontics are here to help.
We’re proud to provide personalized orthodontic care for patients of all ages throughout Oakland, Franklin Lakes, Wyckoff, Ramsey, Mahwah, Wayne, Ringwood, Pompton Lakes, and surrounding communities across Bergen County and Passaic County. Every treatment recommendation is tailored to your unique smile, goals, and stage of development.
If you still have questions about braces, Invisalign®, early orthodontic treatment, treatment costs, insurance, or what to expect during your first visit, we’d love to answer them.
Contact Loeb Orthodontics today to schedule your complimentary consultation at our Oakland NJ orthodontic office and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.
