About the Expert
About the ExpertOver the past 26 years, Dr. Jennifer Buchanan has pioneered many orthodontic technologies, including Insignia Custom Damon Braces, Spark Clear Tooth Aligners, and i-CAT 3D imaging. Many patients don’t realize a portion of their treatment cost goes toward providing new school shoes for kids and mortgage-free homes for wounded veterans. Dr. Buchanan also supports Community Lifeline, Community Food Pantry, and Collin County Boys and Girls Club.
Q&A
When should I have my child evaluated for orthodontic treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children be evaluated by an orthodontist by age seven. At that point, your child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to spot a small problem before it becomes a bigger one. While misaligned teeth, overbites, underbites, or crossbite might be obvious to the untrained eye, other issues need to be evaluated by an orthodontist who can also check below the surface for extra teeth, missing teeth, impacted teeth, or teeth coming into the wrong positions.
Early treatment can guide the growth of facial and jaw bones and provide enough space for incoming permanent teeth. Be sure to seek an office with i-CAT 3D X-ray imaging to detect developing airway and jaw growth issues.
Why is orthodontic treatment so important?
It’s important for several reasons. Misalignment can cause irregular wear of teeth, difficulty talking and poor speech development, and negatively affect the facial aesthetic and position of the lips. Additionally, crooked or crowded teeth are harder to keep clean, which can lead to gum disease. Gum disease has been linked to conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and heart problems. Orthodontics can give you a beautiful smile to improve your appearance and boost your self-esteem. But it’s also important for proper development and overall good health.
How long will treatment take?
With the latest technology like Insignia Damon Braces and Spark Tooth Aligners, orthodontic treatment is more precise and consequently quicker than in the past, both in the length of overall treatment and the frequency and length of each orthodontic visit. Treatment time depends on the dental issues we’re addressing and the compliance of the patient, but it typically ranges from 1-2 years. We offer free consultations so you can get exact recommendations about what needs to be done and an estimate of how long it will take.
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
Statistically, one of every four orthodontic patients is over 18 with many in their 70s or 80s. We offer smaller, less-visible appliances that cater to adults. So, you’re never too old to get the smile you’ve always wanted.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
That depends on the severity of the case, but we make it very affordable by structuring no-interest payment plans. Also, we take most insurance. During your free consultation, we’ll check your benefits and offer you a breakdown and payment option to fit your budget and/or show you how to use your HSA dollars. Because orthodontic treatment is so important to your overall health, we never want finances to stand in the way of care.
What should I look for in an orthodontic practice?
Look for a place where you feel comfortable, somewhere with a family atmosphere that’s also using the latest technology so you can achieve the results you want without extractions, headgear, expanders, or surgery. Look for someone who’s doing good in your community and supporting the things that are important to you.
