Frank E. Cordray D.D.S., M.S.
Board Certified Orthodontic Specialist

Recipient, Distinguished Service Award
Dawson Center for the Advancement of Dentistry

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should a child first see an orthodontist?

A first examination by age 7 is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists, as the front permanent teeth are erupting, unless your dentist has found an area of concern earlier (for example, a crossbite). This does not mean that treatment needs to be started this early but at this time we can give you an idea about how your child’s mouth is developing and what the long-term treatment sequence may be. Early treatment (Phase 1) is usually between the ages of 6 to 11 and is done to correct specific early problems that are best treated before eruption or growth is completed. Full treatment (with braces on all of the permanent teeth) is usually between ages 11 to 15. There is no age limit to having braces. With people living longer and keeping their natural teeth, more adults are seeking the esthetic and functional benefits that braces can provide.

The timing of treatment is very important in obtaining an ideal result. The overriding goal of treatment in our office is to reduce the length of time that you or your child will have your braces on. We pride ourselves on having the shortest treatment times possible and you will find that we are able to complete your orthodontic correction much faster than what is common in other practices, both for Phase 1-Phase 2 treatment and One Phase treatment. A critical part of achieving this goal is proper timing in placing your braces. Our Pre-Orthodontics Guidance Program allows us to time your treatment so that you will have your braces on the shortest amount of time possible to achieve a beautiful result.

Our Pre-Orthodontic Guidance Program includes all of the examinations, the necessary radiographs to assess growth and development and skeletal jaw balance, and any indicated prescriptions regarding possible removal of baby or permanent teeth. The fee for this program is included in your future active treatment fee – there is no additional charge for this service. Proper planning can yield shorter treatment times, better results, and greater post-treatment stability. We want our patients to have a truly beautiful, healthy smile that will last for a lifetime and we want to achieve this correction in a reasonable amount of time.

Does Dr. Cordray treat adult patients?

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I have heard that misaligned teeth can cause the teeth to wear and can cause damage to the teeth. Is this true?

There are so many kinds of braces that are available today. As an adult patient, how do I choose which type of braces are right for me?