Orthodontic FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions at Othman Orthodontics

Patients and parents from Lombard, Orland Park and the surrounding suburbs often have similar questions about braces, Invisalign, treatment length, cost and life after orthodontics. We’ve gathered answers to the most common orthodontic questions to help you feel informed and confident as you plan your smile journey.

Getting Started with Orthodontic Treatment

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional years of advanced training focused on aligning teeth and correcting bites. Orthodontists specialize in treatments like braces, Invisalign, expanders and surgical orthodontics to create healthy, beautiful smiles.

At what age should my child have their first orthodontic visit?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first evaluation by age 7. At this age, we can spot early issues with jaw growth, tooth eruption and bite. Many children won’t need treatment right away, but early checks allow us to time any necessary interceptive treatment for the best results.

Do you treat adults as well as children?

Yes. We offer orthodontics for children, orthodontics for teens and orthodontics for adults. Many of our patients are adults who choose braces or Invisalign to improve their smile, bite and confidence.

What happens at my first orthodontic consultation?

During your orthodontic consultation in Lombard or in Orland Park, we will:

• Review your medical and dental history.
• Examine your teeth, bite and jaw relationships.
• Take digital X-rays, photos and a 3D scan (when needed).
• Explain recommended treatment options and answer your questions.
• Provide a clear estimate of treatment time and cost.

Questions About Braces and Invisalign

What types of braces do you offer?

We offer several options, including:

• Traditional metal braces (with fun colored ties).
• Ceramic clear braces for a more discreet look.
• Lingual braces that are placed on the inside (tongue side) of the teeth.
• Incognito™ braces (a customized type of lingual braces) in appropriate cases.

We’ll recommend the best option based on your goals, lifestyle and clinical needs.

What is Invisalign and how does it work?

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gently move teeth into their ideal positions. You wear each set of aligners for about 1–2 weeks before switching to the next set. We also offer Invisalign Teen for adolescents and Invisalign Phase I for younger children in the early mixed dentition.

Are braces or Invisalign better?

Both can create excellent results. The best choice depends on:

• The complexity of your case.
• Whether you prefer a fixed (braces) or removable (aligners) option.
• Your willingness to wear aligners as directed.

At your consultation, we’ll compare braces vs. Invisalign for your specific situation and explain the pros and cons of each.

Do braces or Invisalign hurt?

You may feel some soreness or pressure when braces are first placed, after adjustments, or when you switch to a new Invisalign aligner. This is a sign that the teeth are moving. Any discomfort is usually mild and temporary and can be managed with soft foods, warm salt water rinses and over-the-counter pain relievers (as recommended by your physician).

Treatment Time, Appointments & Lifestyle

How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?

Treatment time varies based on your needs. Mild cases may take about 12 months, while more complex bite corrections or surgical orthodontic cases can take 24–30 months or more. At your consultation, we’ll give you a personalized estimate.

How often will I need appointments?

Most patients are seen every 6–10 weeks, depending on the stage of treatment and whether they are in braces or using clear aligners. Regular appointments allow us to adjust your appliances, monitor progress and keep your treatment moving forward as planned.

Can I still play sports or musical instruments with braces?

Yes. For sports, we strongly recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces. For wind instruments, there may be a short adjustment period, but most patients adapt quickly. Our team can provide tips to make the transition smoother.

Can I eat normally with braces?

You can enjoy many foods with braces, but you should avoid very hard, sticky or chewy items that can break brackets or wires. We’ll give you a detailed list and also provide tips on how to care for braces so you know which foods are safe and how to keep your teeth clean.

Cost, Insurance & Payment Options

How much do braces or Invisalign cost?

The cost depends on the type of treatment and the complexity of your case. During your consultation, we’ll provide a clear, written estimate. We offer flexible payment options at both locations: Lombard and Orland Park.

Do you accept dental insurance?

Yes. We work with many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits. Our team will verify your coverage, estimate your benefits and help you understand how much your plan may contribute toward braces or Invisalign.

Do you offer payment plans?

We offer flexible, interest-free payment plans for many cases, as well as options to use FSA and HSA funds when applicable. Our goal is to make orthodontic treatment affordable for families throughout Lombard, Orland Park and the surrounding suburbs.

Clinical & Treatment Questions

What is Phase I or interceptive orthodontic treatment?

Interceptive treatment or Phase I treatment is early orthodontic care for younger children, usually between ages 7–10. It focuses on guiding jaw growth, creating space for permanent teeth and addressing bite problems early to reduce the need for more complex treatment later.

What is surgical orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics (orthognathic surgery) is used when jaw bones are significantly out of position. It combines braces or aligners with jaw surgery to correct severe skeletal issues, improve facial balance and create a stable, functional bite.

What is adult orthodontics? Am I too old for treatment?

Adult orthodontics focuses on improving alignment and bite for grown patients. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, it’s rarely “too late” for treatment. In fact, many adults choose braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces or Invisalign to improve their smile and oral health at any age.

Comfort & Orthodontic Emergencies

What is considered an orthodontic emergency?

Most issues (like mild soreness or a loose bracket) are not true emergencies, but you should call us if:

• You have severe pain that doesn’t improve with home care.
• You experience trauma to your mouth, teeth or jaw.
• A wire or appliance is causing significant discomfort or could be swallowed.

For detailed instructions, see our Orthodontic Emergencies – Lombard and Orthodontic Emergencies – Orland Park pages.

What should I do if a wire is poking or a bracket comes loose?

You can often use orthodontic wax to cover a poking wire temporarily. If a bracket is loose, leave it in place if attached to the wire and call our office so we can schedule a repair. Our emergencies pages include step-by-step home tips and when to contact us.

Retainers & Life After Braces

Do I really have to wear retainers after treatment?

Yes. Retainers are essential to keeping your teeth in their new positions. Without retainers, teeth can gradually shift back, especially in the lower front area. Learn more on our Retainers & Life After Braces – Lombard and Retainers & Life After Braces – Orland Park pages.

How long will I need to wear retainers?

Retainer wear is most important in the first months after treatment, but long-term retention is recommended to maintain your result. Most patients wear retainers full-time at first, then at night only. Many orthodontists now recommend nighttime retainer wear indefinitely to keep your smile straight.

What if I lose or break my retainer?

Contact our office as soon as possible. We’ll check for any movement and, if needed, take a new scan or impression to make a replacement retainer. Replacing a retainer quickly helps prevent teeth from shifting.

Locations & Service Area

Where are you located?

Othman Orthodontics has two convenient locations:

• Lombard, IL – serving Lombard, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Wheaton, Villa Park, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, Hinsdale, Westmont, Lisle, Naperville and nearby communities.
• Orland Park, IL – serving Orland Park, Tinley Park, Palos Heights, Palos Park, Homer Glen, Oak Forest, Mokena, Frankfort, New Lenox, Lockport and surrounding areas.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can call either office directly or request an appointment online. We’ll help you schedule an orthodontic consultation at the location that’s most convenient for you and your family.

Still Have Questions?

If your question isn’t listed here, our team at Othman Orthodontics is happy to help. We want you to feel comfortable and informed at every step—from your first consultation through braces, Invisalign, retainers and beyond.