Orthodontics FAQs in Greeley CO

The duration varies due to several factors, such as patient compliance and the complexity of the case. Some treatments progress faster because the teeth respond well, while others take longer due to individual differences in tooth and bone movement. Generally, treatment can last from around a year to up to three years or more for very complex cases.

Braces typically cause discomfort for the first few days, but most patients adjust quickly. With clear aligners like Invisalign, you might feel tightness or mild discomfort when switching to a new tray, but it's generally manageable and temporary.

We offer traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners such as Invisalign or our 3D-printed Memoform aligners. While ceramic braces are an option, we typically use them less frequently because they can break easily, discolor, and create more friction, which can slow down tooth movement.

The cost depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case and any additional procedures like MARPE. Since multiple visits and significant time and effort are involved, prices can vary. However, we strive to keep treatments affordable and within a reasonable range for as many patients as possible.

Absolutely! Orthodontic treatment can be highly effective at any age. With advancements like MARPE and corticotomy, we can achieve significant skeletal changes even in adults, without relying on growth phases.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Brush and floss regularly, avoid foods that could damage your braces, and follow the care instructions we provide. For aligners, keep them clean and wear them as directed for the best results."

In most cases, yes. Even people who haven't had braces experience natural shifting of their teeth over time, especially the lower front teeth. Wearing a retainer helps maintain the alignment achieved during treatment and keeps your smile looking great long-term.

Avoid foods that are sticky, hard, or chewy, as they can damage the brackets and wires. This can prolong your treatment and make it more challenging to achieve the desired results. Sticking to braces-friendly foods helps keep your treatment on track and your braces in good shape.

While SARPE (surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion) was once the go-to for transverse discrepancies, modern techniques have provided a less invasive alternative. At Choi Orthodontics, we favor MARPE (miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion), which uses tiny screws to widen the jaw without major surgery. Although SARPE may still be recommended in very specific cases, the vast majority of patients—especially adults—can achieve predictable expansion and lasting results with MARPE, often enhanced by minor corticotomies.

If you’ve been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or intolerable, an oral appliance could be a highly effective alternative. These devices gently advance the lower jaw to keep your airway open during sleep. Research shows that for many patients, oral appliances deliver results comparable to CPAP. During your consultation, we’ll review your sleep history, any prior sleep study data, and your comfort with CPAP to determine if an oral appliance is the right next step.

Most medical insurance plans include CPAP coverage, but policy details can vary widely. Some insurers require you to demonstrate CPAP use for a specified period before authorizing coverage for an oral appliance. At Choi Orthodontics, we’ll help you understand your benefits, verify coverage, and guide you through any prerequisites so you can access the therapy that works best for you.

Palatal expansion can significantly increase nasal and oral airway volume, which often helps improve breathing comfort. In children, airway obstruction is frequently resolved by tonsil and adenoid removal, yet expansion can further optimize airflow. In adults, expansion may alleviate some airway restriction but doesn’t address every factor of sleep apnea (such as soft-tissue collapse). We view expansion as one valuable tool—when combined with appropriate medical and dental therapies, it contributes to a more comprehensive approach to airway health.