Douglas Barden

Dr. Douglas Barden is always happy to answer questions about orthodontic treatment. In this blog, Dr. Barden answers to some Frequently Asked Questions.

What age should my child see an orthodontist?

Children should see an orthodontist by age 7. This allows me to look for and correct any problems sooner and without surgery. Not all children will need early treatment. Some children will benefit from early phase treatment while others won’t need treatment for several more years.

Is it safe to do mail order aligners?

Orthodontics is a medical treatment that requires supervision by a trained medical professional and should be done in-person. The American Association of Orthodontists has issued a Consumer Alert warning patients about mail order orthodontic treatments that you can read here: Consumer Alert | American Association of Orthodontists (aaoinfo.org)

How long do I need to wear my retainer for?

Once orthodontic treatment is finished to keep your smile looking its best, you will have to wear a retainer. Retainers are necessary to preserve and stabilize your results. Depending on your treatment plan you will either have a removable retainer or a fixed retainer. Fixed retainers are usually kept in for life. Removable retainers should be worn a set number of hours every day to keep your teeth from moving. We will let you know how to effectively use, and care for, your retainer when you complete treatment.

I broke/lost/my dog ate my retainer! What should I do?

Retainers are important for maintaining your beautiful smile! If you need a new retainer, call our office immediately to schedule an appointment to have a new one made. The sooner you call us the better as your teeth can move if you don't wear your retainer.

Do I need to see my dentist while in orthodontic treatment?

Yes! I will be focusing on orthodontics and moving your teeth and jaw for better alignment. You will still need to see your dentist and hygienist for regular cleanings, exams, and any other non-orthodontic dental work (such as filling cavities). l work in collaboration with your dentist to make sure you have a healthy, beautiful smile.

Do you work with adults who need orthodontic treatment?

Yes! Adults are a growing number of our patients. Some of our adult patients never had orthodontic treatment and are now looking to correct their jaw alignment or straighten their teeth. Other adult patients were treated as children but now need some smaller adjustments to their smile. We offer adults a number of cosmetically discreet treatment options so you can get the smile you want with minimal interruption to your lifestyle!

How much do braces cost?

The cost of treatment depends on the treatment plan and your individual needs. We are happy to coordinate with your dental insurance company and create a payment plan that works for your budget. You will know what to expect before you begin treatment so there are no surprise or unexpected costs.

 Do you have more questions?  We are happy to answer questions during a free consultation. Give us a call at 414-962-1281

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We understand that people are concerned about virus spread during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety and health.

Infection control has always been a top priority for our practice. Our infection control processes ensure that when you receive care, it is both safe and comfortable. Our office follows infection control recommendations made by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We follow the activities of these agencies so that we are up-to-date on any new guidance that may be issued.

We have taken additional, preventive steps to ensure the health of patients and staff. You will see some changes when it is time for your next appointment.

Changes in the office:

• Our clinical staff will be using N95 or KN95 respirator masks and face shields in addition to the usual personal protective equipment.
• Multi-stage air purifiers are being used in our waiting room and all treatment rooms. These purifiers remove particles and destroy small particles in the air, including viruses.
• There are Plexiglas shields in place at the reception desk and social distancing reminder stickers. For now, the waiting room will no longer offer magazines, beverages, or the use of arcade games.
• We have increased routine cleaning and disinfection of the waiting room and common, high touch areas.
•  We are using new tools that reduce aerosols.
• The door to our office is "touchless entry". Wave at the sensor and the door opens for you! Convenient and reduces a common touch surface.
• Appointments will be scheduled to allow for social distancing and reduce waiting time for patients. That might mean fewer options for scheduling your appointment.

For your appointment:

• Prior to the day of the appointment, our office will email you two forms (COVID-19 Supplemental Informed Consent and Supplemental Health Questionnaire). Please have the forms completed by the patient or guardian prior to coming to the appointment.
• Please brush and floss prior to your appointment. The tooth brushing station will be closed following recommendation by the AAO.
• To minimize use of the waiting room, please call us at 414-962-1281 when you have arrived at our building. We will let you know if we are ready for your appointment. If not, we will ask you to wait outside, or in your car, and we will text when we are ready.
• We ask that only the patient, and a maximum of one guardian, come to the appointment to reduce the number of people in the office.
• Someone from our office will greet you at the door and take your temperature using a touchless thermometer. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 or higher will have their appointment rescheduled for a later date.
• Please wear a cloth mask or face covering as you enter the building.
• Please use the hand sanitizer available when you enter the office.

We look forward to seeing you and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the steps we take to keep you, and every patient, safe in our office.

Thank you for being our patient. We value your trust and loyalty.

Sincerely,

Dr. Doug Barden and the Barden Orthodontics Team

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